Prescription Writing

Question 1

Which 2 entities control the possession of medicine?

Answer 1

Medicines and Related Substances Act, 1965 (Act 101 of 1965) as amended – section 22A

SAHPRA (SA Health Products Regulatory Authority)

Question 2

Which factors are substances schedule based on?

Answer 2

Potential for abuse
Potential for dependence
Safety
Clinical indication (schedule may vary accordingly)
Pack size

Question 3

Who can possess and sell schedule 0 medicine?

Answer 3

Grocery stores
Corner café
Pharmacies
Health shops

Question 4

From which schedule can must a medical pratitioner prescribe?

Answer 4

3-6

Question 5

Which drugs falls under schedule 7?

Answer 5

Amphetamines
Nabilone
Phencyclidine (PCP)
Permit valid for 12 calendar months

only if a permit is issued by the director general

Question 6

who can be in possession of schedule 0-2 drugs?

Answer 6

Any one for medicinal use

Question 7

Who may be in possession of scheduled 3-7 drugs?

Answer 7

Any person if in possession of a valid script

Question 8

How does this system affect people coming into the country?

Answer 8

6 months of medicines

for personal use for S3-S5

30 days supply for S6
Valid prescription

Question 9

which schedules can get a verbal prescription?

Answer 9

Schedule 2-4

Maximum treatment period 7 days

Follow up with a written prescription within 7 days

non-emergencies

Question 10

Compare repeat prescriptions among schedules.

Answer 10

Schedules 2-5
Number of repeats indicated on Rx
Maximum 6 months
S5 specify repeat intervals as well

Schedule 6
No repeats
New prescription required every time
Maximum 30 days supply

Question 11

What is a prescription?

Answer 11

An order or set of instructions either written or transmitted electronically / verbally, by an authorised prescriber to a dispenser, for the preparation and use of a medicine (s) by a specified patient SAMF, 2016

A prescription expires after 30 days and may no longer be dispensed