Controlled Drug resources and FAQs
Controlled Drug resources and FAQs
QUICK LINKS |
| REF: The Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 (16(2)) |
| Dispensing Controlled Drugs |
EPS CD FAQs
PSNC Briefing: EPS Controlled Drugs (CD) FAQs
Other CD FAQs
Q. I have received a prescription for a Schedule 2 Controlled Drug (CD). The date has been computer generated, is this acceptable?
A. Yes, prescribers can now issue computer-generated prescriptions for all CDs including Schedule 2 and 3 CDs; all details except the signature can be computer-generated.
Q. I have received a prescription for a Schedule 2 CD. The date is missing. Is it acceptable for this to be added by the pharmacist?
A. No, on prescriptions for Schedule 2 or 3 CDs pharmacists can only amend;
- minor spellings errors; or
- typographical errors; or
- the omission of either words or figures (but not both).
It is not possible for pharmacists to add a missing date or other information such as a missing dose or pharmaceutical form.
Q. I’ve received a standard FP10 prescription for ‘Diazepam Tablets’ which requests instalment dispensing. Will I be reimbursed for dispensing in instalments?
A. No, there is no provision to dispense medicines in instalments on a standard FP10 prescription form. The prescriber is breaking their Terms of Service* by not using the form provided specially for the purpose of supply in instalments.
In England, form FP10MDA allows instalment dispensing of:
- Schedule 2 CDs;
- Buprenorphine;
- Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone); and
In Wales, the rules are slightly different. Schedule 2, 3, 4 and 5 CSs can be prescribed in instalments on Form WP10MDA in Wales. If a WP10MDA prescription is presented for dispensing in England, the English rules apply; contractors will only be reimbursed for dispensing Schedule 2 CDs, Buprenorphine, Buprenorphine/Naloxone and Diazepam in instalments.
Another option for the prescriber could be the repeat dispensing arrangements, provided that the patient fits into the suggested criteria for patient selection i.e. they have a long-term condition that is considered likely to remain stable for the duration of repeat dispensing.
* The National Health Service (General Medical Services Contracts) Regulations 2015 – regulation 56, paragraph 10 outlines the regulations surrounding CDinstalment dispensing:
“Where a prescriber orders the drug buprenorphine or diazepam or a drug specified in Part 1 of Schedule 2 to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 (Controlled Drugs to which Regulations 14 to 16, 18 to 21, 23, 26 and 27 of those Regulations apply) for supply by instalments for treating addiction to any drug specified in that Schedule, he shall—
(a) use only the prescription form provided specially for the purposes of supply by instalments;
(b) specify the number of instalments to be dispensed and the interval between each instalment; and
(c) order only such quantity of the drug as will provide treatment for a period not exceeding 14 days.”
Related resources
Endorsing instalment forms correctly
The Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 (16(2)) (external)
