Explanatory note on the Documentation and Other Requirements to be met by Pharmacists in Retail Pharmacy Businesses in Making Supplies of Controlled Drugs to Patients in Nursing Homes

The purpose of this explanatory note is to set out the requirements under the Misuse of Drugs Acts for the supply by pharmacists in retail pharmacy businesses of Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 controlled drugs to patients in nursing homes. The need for this statement has arisen out of the number of queries being received by PSI seeking clarification in respect of the documentation requirements for the lawful supply of controlled drugs where patients in nursing homes are concerned.

The requirements for the making of supplies of controlled drugs, including the making of supplies to patients in nursing homes, are set out in the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2017 (as amended) (S.I. No. 173 of 2017).

This explanatory note therefore provides information on provisions of the legislation outlined below and also outlines the subsequent obligations on pharmacists in making supplies of controlled drugs to patients in nursing homes

For further guidance on this area, please see our care of patients in nursing homes and residential care settings section.