Pharmacist Removed for Misappropriation of Fentanyl and Breach of Interim Suspension Order

Date of Decision: November 15, 2022

Registrant's Role: Pharmacist

Allegations:

• Removed an unknown quantity of Fentanyl from the pharmacy without a valid prescription.
• Made irregular entries in the controlled drugs register.
• Dishonestly removed Fentanyl without permission, prescription, or payment.
• Dishonestly amended controlled drugs registers to misrepresent stock levels.
• Breached the Interim Suspension Order by working as a pharmacist at various sites.

Outcome: Removed

GPhC Standards Breached:

• Standard 6: Trustworthy and act with honesty and integrity.
• Standard 9: Do not abuse position.

Case Summary

In a recent determination by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), a pharmacist was removed from the register following serious misconduct and health-related issues. The case involved the misappropriation of Fentanyl, a controlled drug, from a pharmacy without a valid prescription and making dishonest entries in the controlled drugs register. The pharmacist was also found to have breached an Interim Suspension Order by working as a pharmacist at various vaccination sites. The GPhC’s Fitness to Practise Committee found the pharmacist’s actions to be dishonest and a breach of fundamental professional standards, leading to a decision to remove the pharmacist from the register.

Allegations:
The pharmacist faced multiple allegations, including the removal of Fentanyl from the pharmacy without a prescription, making irregular and dishonest entries in the controlled drugs register, and working in breach of an Interim Suspension Order. These actions were found to be dishonest and in violation of the GPhC’s standards.

Findings:
The committee found that the pharmacist’s actions were deliberate and dishonest, with no evidence of insight or remediation. The pharmacist’s conduct was deemed to pose a risk to the public and undermine the reputation of the pharmacy profession.

GPhC Determination on Impairment:
The committee determined that the pharmacist’s fitness to practise was impaired due to both misconduct and health reasons. The pharmacist’s actions were found to breach the fundamental principles of the profession, including honesty and integrity.

Sanction:
Given the seriousness of the misconduct, the committee decided that removal from the register was the only appropriate sanction. The pharmacist’s repeated dishonesty and breach of the Interim Suspension Order were deemed incompatible with remaining in the profession.

Learning Points for Pharmacy Professionals:
This case highlights the critical importance of adhering to professional standards and the severe consequences of breaching them. Pharmacy professionals must maintain honesty and integrity in their practice and comply with regulatory orders to protect public safety and uphold the profession’s reputation.

Original Case Document

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