CONTROLLED DRUGS

CONTROLLED DRUGS

Posted by Geoffrey Watson B.Pharm, Cert. Vet Pharm, D.Ag.Vet.Pharm. Superintendent Pharmacist on 22nd Apr 2025

CONTROLLED DRUGS
 
Please note that only the ORIGINAL prescription can be dispensed not copies or emails
These are medicines where  extra controls are set by the Home office and enforced by the police.
There are several classes of drug with slightly different regulations including  Gabapentin, Pregabalin, Phenobarbitone,  Diazepam  Clenbuterol (Ventipulmin) and some strong pain killers.
 
If prescriptions are not written correctly they cannot be dispensed.
 
Prescriptions are only valid for 28 days after the “appropriate” date which is either when they are signed  or a future  date may  be given before which they cannot be supplied
· The total quantity to be supplied should be in both words and figures
· The strength should be included if more than one is available
· The dose  and form must be included  if more than one (eg tablets, capsules, etc)
· Prescriptions must be dated and signed and must include the RCVS Registration Number of the Vet.
· Only original prescriptions can be dispensed emails and copies are NOT valid
 
NB Although “Repeat prescriptions” are not allowed  except for Diazepam and Clenbuterol (Ventipulmin) “instalments” are  permitted for other controlled drugs and must include the amount to be supplied per instalment as well as the dose and the interval between each supply. The first instalment must be taken within 28 days of the “appropriate date”
 
As problems may arise if an instalment is due on a day the pharmacy does not open please ask your vet to include this Official Home Office wording on every instalment prescription
Please dispense instalments due on pharmacy closed days on a prior suitable day
 
Our staff are always happy  to help and explain these strictly enforced regulations for any queries or updates on orders please call us on 01833 641112
 
NB If you have placed an order on our web site or by phone please write your Order Number at the top of the prescription before posting or bringing it to us  to avoid any delay
CONTROLLED DRUGS
 
Please note that only the ORIGINAL prescription can be dispensed not copies or emails
These are medicines where  extra controls are set by the Home office and enforced by the police.
There are several classes of drug with slightly different regulations including  Gabapentin, Pregabalin, Phenobarbitone,  Diazepam  Clenbuterol (Ventipulmin) and some strong pain killers.
 
If prescriptions are not written correctly they cannot be dispensed.
 
Prescriptions are only valid for 28 days after the “appropriate” date which is either when they are signed  or a future  date may  be given before which they cannot be supplied
· The total quantity to be supplied should be in both words and figures
· The strength should be included if more than one is available
· The dose  and form must be included  if more than one (eg tablets, capsules, etc)
· Prescriptions must be dated and signed and must include the RCVS Registration Number of the Vet.
· Only original prescriptions can be dispensed emails and copies are NOT valid
 
NB Although “Repeat prescriptions” are not allowed  except for Diazepam and Clenbuterol (Ventipulmin) “instalments” are  permitted for other controlled drugs and must include the amount to be supplied per instalment as well as the dose and the interval between each supply. The first instalment must be taken within 28 days of the “appropriate date”
 
As problems may arise if an instalment is due on a day the pharmacy does not open please ask your vet to include this Official Home Office wording on every instalment prescription
Please dispense instalments due on pharmacy closed days on a prior suitable day
 
Our staff are always happy  to help and explain these strictly enforced regulations for any queries or updates on orders please call us on 01833 641112
 
NB If you have placed an order on our web site or by phone please write your Order Number at the top of the prescription before posting or bringing it to us  to avoid any delay