NI Pharmacist Suspended for Theft of Controlled Drugs from McKenzie’s Pharmacy
Date of Decision: September 2, 2025
Registrant's Role: Pharmacist
Allegations:
- Unlawful possession of prescription-only medications (including controlled drugs) without valid prescriptions
- Failure to record transactions of misappropriated medications
- Abuse of professional position to obtain medication not available to the public without a prescription
- Failure to report circumstances affecting fitness to practise to the regulator
- Convictions for possession of Class C controlled drugs (Pregabalin, Diazepam)
- Conviction for theft of medications belonging to his employer
Outcome: 9-month suspension from the register
GPhC Standards Breached:
- Standard 1 – Provide person-centred care
- Standard 2 – Work in partnership with others
- Standard 3 – Communicate effectively
- Standard 4 – Maintain, develop and use your professional knowledge and skills
- Standard 6 – Behave in a professional manner
- Standard 9 – Demonstrate leadership
Case Summary
Allegations
The case concerned serious allegations of misconduct against a registered pharmacist who was employed at McKenzie’s Pharmacy, North Queen Street, Belfast. The core of the misconduct related to the unlawful misappropriation and possession of prescription-only and controlled drugs for personal use, and the failure to report these activities to the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
Between January and March 2024, the registrant unlawfully took several medications from the pharmacy, including Pregabalin 300mg, Diazepam 5mg, Codeine 30mg, and Co-codamol 30/500mg, all without a valid prescription. Notably, these medications are not only prescription-only but also fall under Class C controlled substances under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
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- Full allegations considered by the GPhC
- Panel findings and reasoning
- Outcome of the investigation
- Sanctions considered and imposed on the Pharmacist
- Key professional learning points
Original Case Document
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The original determination transcript is available to registered users.
- Download the official GPhC determination
- Full hearing transcript
- Detailed findings of fact
- Sanction reasoning
- Details of the pharmacy professionals involved