Prescribing

Question 1

Definition proprietary

Answer 1

Trade name

Eg E45

Question 2

Definition non-proprietary

Answer 2

Generic title

Eg emulsifying ointment

Question 3

Advice to patients on topical steroids

Answer 3

Use as directed - typically BD for 1-2 weeks
Use only enough to shine the skin
Use emollients after steroids
Remember to start with stronger potency steroid and taper to a less potent steroid for 2-3 weeks after skin looks healed/normal

Question 4

3 things to consider when choosing emolient

Answer 4

1) severity
2) site
3) patient choice

Question 5

Definition unlicensed

Answer 5

That it has not been used in clinical trials in this way

But it can be prescribed for this use

Question 6

Which antibiotic must be avoided in first trimester of pregnancy?

Answer 6

Trimethoprin

It’s an antifolate

Question 7

What should be included on a FP10 for a controlled drug prescription?

Answer 7

Dose + form + strength
Dosage instructions
Quantity (words + figures)

Question 8

Define breakthrough pain

Answer 8

Transitory exacerbation of pain experienced by a patient who has relatively stable and adequately controlled baseline pain

• common
• difficult to manage
• negative impact on QOL

1) MST 1/6 of total morphine dose (oramorph)
2) Oxycodone (oxynorm = immediate release, oxycontin
= slow release)

Question 9

How often do antibiotics need to be reviewed?

Answer 9

48hrs

Question 10

Drip rate calculation

Answer 10

Vol (ml) / time (mins) x 20/60 = drip rate in drops/min

Eg 1000/60 x 20/60 = 42/min = 7 / 10s