Pharmacist Suspended for Misconduct Involving Inappropriate Supply of Codeine Linctus

In a recent determination by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), a pharmacist was found guilty of misconduct related to the inappropriate supply of Codeine Linctus, a potentially addictive medication. The pharmacist, who owned and operated Medina Chemist, was accused of allowing approximately 1000 bottles of Codeine Linctus to be ordered and supplied without adequate checks between June 2017 and March 2019. Additionally, the pharmacist was found to have supplied the medication to a patient, referred to as Patient A, without conducting necessary investigations or providing warnings about its addictive properties.

The GPhC’s findings highlighted several breaches of professional standards, including the failure to provide person-centered care, communicate effectively, use professional judgment, behave professionally, and demonstrate leadership. The pharmacist’s actions were deemed a serious departure from the standards expected of pharmacy professionals, leading to a 12-month suspension with a review hearing.

The determination emphasized the importance of adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) when supplying medications, particularly those with potential for abuse. The pharmacist’s failure to follow these procedures resulted in a significant risk to patient safety and public confidence in the profession.

The GPhC’s decision underscores the critical role of pharmacists in safeguarding public health by ensuring medications are supplied responsibly and ethically. Pharmacy professionals are reminded of the importance of maintaining high standards of practice, conducting thorough patient assessments, and providing appropriate warnings about medication risks.

The case serves as a learning point for pharmacy professionals, highlighting the need for vigilance in the supply of controlled substances and the importance of maintaining public trust through adherence to professional standards.