Working in a pharmacy is one of the most responsible professions. Contrary to appearances, it is not only about taking the right medicine out of the drawer and giving it to the client, but also about correct verification of prescriptions and knowing when to refuse a patient’s prescription. Situations when a pharmacist says “no” are rare. However, they are not impossible. It’s worth knowing about this so as not to be disappointed in the future.
Pharmaceutical law. When can a pharmacist refuse to dispense a medicine?
A pharmacist may refuse to dispense your medication for several reasons. They are clearly defined in the regulations. If a pharmacist does not comply with them, he or she may face a penalty. Pursuant to pharmaceutical law, a pharmacist and a pharmaceutical technician may refuse to dispense a drug to a person under 18 years of age if he or she suspects that it may be used for non-medical purposes or pose a threat to life.
Additionally minors cannot buy medicines containing pseudoephedrine, dextromethorphan or codeine. The pharmacist may ask to see a document confirming age. If the customer does not have it, the seller will not dispense the medicine.
When can a pharmacist refuse to dispense a medicine? pexels.com/Pixabay
Refusal to dispense medicine at a pharmacy. Is there a conscience clause?
This is not the only situation in which a pharmacist may not dispense your medicine. According to pharmaceutical law, a patient will not receive a medicine if there is reasonable suspicion as to the authenticity of the prescription or if it was issued incorrectly. Each prescription must contain the following information: patient data, data of the entity where the prescription was issued, data of the person issuing the prescription, data regarding the product for which the prescription is issued, date of issuance of the prescription, prescription number. It is worth mentioning that it does not provide for a conscience clause for pharmacists. It applies only to doctors, nurses and midwives.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
