Pharmacist Suspended After Dishonestly Taking Lorazepam from Hospital Pharmacy Stock for Personal Use
Date of Decision: June 3, 2026
Registrant's Role: Pharmacist
Allegations:
- Whilst working as a locum pharmacist at Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital on 5 September 2024, the registrant removed and retained lorazepam from pharmacy stock when it had not been prescribed to him.
- The registrant's actions were dishonest because: He did not have permission and/or authority to remove and/or retain the medicine; He knew that he did not have permission and/or authority to remove and/or retain the medicine.
- By reason of the above matters, the registrant's fitness to practise was impaired by reason of misconduct.
Outcome: 4-month Suspension Order
GPhC Standards Breached:
- Standard 6 – Behave in a professional manner with honesty and integrity.
Case Summary
Allegations
This case concerned a pharmacist who was working as a locum pharmacist at Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital in September 2024. The allegations arose after a discrepancy was identified during a routine controlled drug stock check.
The medicine involved was lorazepam 0.5mg, a benzodiazepine medicine classified as a Schedule 4 Controlled Drug. The hospital pharmacy did not routinely stock this strength. A box of 28 tablets had been specially ordered because lorazepam 1mg tablets were unavailable and a patient required treatment. Fourteen tablets had been dispensed, leaving fourteen tablets in stock. During the next day’s stock check, pharmacy staff discovered that seven tablets were missing.
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- Full allegations considered by the GPhC/PSNI
- 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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