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2. Prescription requirements
For Schedule 2 & 3 CDs, prescriptions
must include: 4. Record keeping
• Patient’s name and address. • CD Register – Required for all Schedule
• Prescriber’s address and signature (in ink 2 CDs.
or advanced electronic signature).
• Drug name, form, and strength. • Record entries on the day of supply
or receipt.
• Dose instructions (must not be vague, e.g.,
“as directed” is not acceptable). • Keep separate pages for each strength
and formulation.
• Total quantity (in both words and figures). • Make entries in ink or secure electronic
• Prescription date within 28 days of supply. format – no alterations; use a signed
and dated correction note if needed.
Dispensers must check: • Keep registers for at least 2 years after
last entry.
• All details are present and unambiguous. • Patient-Returned CDs – Record in a
• Quantity does not exceed 30 days’ supply separate patient returns register; these
(professional judgement applies if over). CDs can be destroyed by trained
• Valid prescriber type – not all prescribers dispensary staff following SOP and
can prescribe CDs. witnessed by a second staff member.
• Running Balances – Maintain accurate
balances to allow prompt discrepancy
detection. These should be routinely
3. Storage requirements checked (at least monthly and more
often if discrepancies occur).
• Safe Custody – Schedule 2 CDs
(and some Schedule 3, e.g., temazepam,
buprenorphine) must be stored in an 5. Supply and dispensing
approved CD cabinet or safe that
complies with The Misuse of Drugs (Safe
Custody) Regulations 1973. • Always follow specific SOPs when
• The CD cabinet must be locked when not assembling, checking, and handing
in immediate use. out CDs.
• Access must be restricted to authorised • Check patient identity carefully
staff only. before supply.
• Keys must be kept under personal control • Ensure the correct formulation
of an authorised person (not left and strength.
unattended) or better still should be kept • Obtain a valid signature from the patient
in a key safe. or representative for all Schedule 2 & 3
supplies if possible (this is good practice)
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