Page 37 - P4304.1-V100_PS Magazine - August 24 PRINT

Misuse of Drugs
Regulations 2001

The Misuse of Drugs Regulations
2001 complements the 1971 Act by
providing a detailed framework for the
lawful handling of Controlled Drugs. It
categorises drugs into five schedules,
each imposing different levels of control:

Schedule 1 Schedule 2
Includes drugs with no Includes drugs like
recognized medicinal morphine and methadone,
value, such as LSD and which have medicinal uses
ecstasy. These can only but are highly regulated.
be used for research Lots of prescription
purposes under a special requirements and record
Home Office license. keeping for these drugs.

Schedule 3 Schedule 4
Includes drugs such as Divided into two parts, this
barbiturates and certain schedule includes substances
painkillers that are less like anabolic steroids (Part 1)
strictly regulated than and benzodiazepines (Part 2).
Schedule 2 drugs but These drugs are subject to
still require safe custody prescription controls but with
and record-keeping. fewer restrictions compared
to Schedules 1-3.

Schedule 5

Contains preparations
of certain controlled
drugs at low
strengths, such as
codeine, that can be
sold over the counter.

Prescriptions and Dispensing

Healthcare professionals who prescribe controlled drugs must adhere
to strict guidelines to prevent misuse and diversion. Prescriptions
must include specific details, such as the patient’s full name, address,
and the dosage instructions, and they must be signed and dated by
the prescriber. Dispensing contractors are required to keep detailed
records of Controlled Drugs dispensed and to conduct regular audits.

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09/07/2024 10:31:01
P4304.1-V100_PS Magazine - August 24.indd 37
P4304.1-V100_PS Magazine - August 24.indd 37 09/07/2024 10:31:01