Pharmacists play a very important role in the community as custodians of medicines and poisons and this role includes complying with legislated requirements for the recording and storage of Schedule 8 poisons. The Authority has developed Managing Schedule 8 poisons – a reference guide for pharmacists to support pharmacists and licensees to understand and comply with their obligations.
The reference guide was developed in consultation with pharmacy peak bodies in response to levels of non-compliance identified in the Authority’s inspections, matters considered during panel hearings and the significant risks to public safety associated with these medicines. It reflects a commitment outlined in the Victorian Pharmacy Authority Statement of Expectations Action Plan 2019-21 which can also be viewed on this website.
A laminated copy of the reference guide was sent free of charge to all registered premises in Victoria and a digital copy is available for download. The Authority encourages pharmacists to prominently display the reference guide in an area of the dispensary to facilitate its intended use as a quick reference guide (e.g. on the door of the drug safe) to help meet their obligations when managing Schedule 8 poisons.
The reference guide has been updated under the heading Records – Readily retrievable to clarify the manner in which S8 prescriptions are required to be kept at the pharmacy (24 March 2021, Version 2).