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Schedule 4 CD prescription validity — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModeratePharmacy Law and EthicsSchedule 4 CD prescription validityGPhC CRA

A patient presents a prescription for diazepam 5mg tablets dated 35 days ago. It is otherwise legally complete and from a UK prescriber. He says he forgot to collect it. What is the legal classification/requirement?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — The prescription is no longer valid because Schedule 4 Controlled Drug prescriptions expire after 28 days.

Diazepam is a Schedule 4 Controlled Drug, and prescriptions for Schedule 2, 3 and 4 Controlled Drugs are generally valid for 28 days. A verbal reassurance after expiry does not make the original prescription valid. A new prescription would be needed.

Reference: Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001; MEP