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Controlled drug instalment direction — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardPharmacy Law and EthicsControlled drug instalment directionGPhC CRA

A prescription for methadone oral solution states instalment dispensing on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with wording to supply Tuesday and Wednesday doses on Monday and weekend doses on Friday. The patient arrives on Thursday saying they missed Wednesday collection and wants the missed instalment plus Thursday's dose. What is the legal classification/requirement?

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Correct answer: B — Follow the instalment direction and relevant Home Office wording, checking what may legally be supplied

Instalment prescriptions for controlled drugs must be supplied according to the prescription directions and any approved wording. Missed instalments cannot simply be accumulated unless the wording permits that supply. The pharmacist should check the legal direction and clinical safety, and contact the prescriber where needed. Methadone instalment dispensing has specific legal and safety requirements.

Reference: Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001; Home Office approved wording; MEP