The strictest category.
WHAT THEY ARE
Medicines subject to additional control because of dependence or misuse potential.
WHAT ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS TYPICALLY APPLY
Authorisation to handle them Separate secure storage A dedicated register Specific prescription requirements Recording of every receipt and supply Inspection of the register
WHAT SECURE STORAGE MEANS
A locked cabinet, fixed, with controlled key access.
WHO HOLDS THE KEY
A named responsible person.
WHAT THE REGISTER MUST RECORD
Date Product and quantity Who supplied or received Prescription details Running balance
WHAT MAKES A REGISTER DEFENSIBLE
Entries made at the time In order Not altered Balanced and reconciled
WHAT TO NEVER DO
Alter a register entry Leave gaps Reconstruct it later
WHAT TO RECONCILE
Physical stock against the register balance.
HOW OFTEN
Regularly, on a schedule.
WHAT DISCREPANCIES REQUIRE
Investigation, and reporting where required.
WHY
Unexplained losses of controlled substances are treated seriously.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT PRESCRIPTIONS
What is required for each class How long a prescription remains valid What must be retained
WHAT TO DO ABOUT SUSPECTED FORGERIES
Do not dispense, and follow the reporting requirements.
WHAT SIGNS APPEAR
Altered quantities Unfamiliar prescriber details Requests for specific products by brand and quantity
WHAT TO TRAIN STAFF ON
Recognising them, and escalating to the pharmacist.
