Licence requirements for the prescribing of cocaine, diamorphine and dipipanone for addiction
Pharmacists are reminded that doctors may only write prescriptions and authorise the supply of certain Schedule 2 Controlled Drugs for the treatment of addiction if they are licensed to do so by the Home Office acting for the Secretary of State.
The only Controlled Drugs to which this requirement applies are cocaine,
diamorphine, dipipanone and their salts. A licence is required when these
drugs are prescribed for an addicted person for the purpose of treating
their addiction.
A licence would not be required when a doctor prescribes these items
for the purpose of treating organic disease or injury.
Upon receipt of a prescription for these items for use in the treatment
of addiction, pharmacists are advised to make the appropriate checks
to confirm whether the doctor has the necessary licence to enable him
to prescribe in these circumstances. If it is not clear whether the doctor
is prescribing the item for treating organic disease or injury or for
addiction, the pharmacist is advised to contact the prescriber for confirmation.
The Drug Licensing Unit of the Home Office holds details of the licences
held and can be contacted via the Home Office switchboard on 0870 000
1585. |
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Pharmaceutical Journal