Northern Ireland Serious Shortage Protocol for Fluoxetine 40mg capsules activated on 20 May 2020
CPNI previously alerted contractors to the issuing of guidance by the Department of Health NI in relation to the introduction of Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) in the event of a serious shortage of medicines. Detailed information can be found at the following link:
www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/services/3063.htm
Training slides with voice-over are also available at the following link:
On 20 May 2020, an SSP was activated relating to Fluoxetine 40mg capsules(see details via link above).
Key points (not an exhaustive list)
1. Pharmacists who receive a prescription for Fluoxetine 40mg capsules must consider SSP06.
2. The supervising pharmacist may supply the alternative strength and quantity stipulated on the SSP if, having exercised his/her professional skill and judgement, he/she is of the opinion the supply is reasonable and appropriate for the patient, and the patient agrees and consents to the alternative supply.
3. There are additional considerations associated with supply under an SSP, including:
a. Dosage should remain as originally prescribed;
b. The total quantity supplied should be equivalent to the duration of treatment as in the original prescription;
c. Labelling should include ‘supplied against SSP number [state number];
d. Submission for payment – see additional guidance from BSO on link above;
e. Record-keeping – the alternative supply should be recorded on the PMRs as per your usual SOP;
f. GP notification is not required for this SSP but may be professionally/clinically appropriate in certain cases;
g. Patient consent/agreement – if a patient declines the alternative under an SSP you should advise them to return to the prescriber.
This SSP commenced on 20 May 2020 and is currently due to expire on 20 July 2020. The expiry date may be brought forward or extended so the validity of the SSP should be checked on the BSO website, as appropriate.
Action
Contractors should:
- Note the issue of an SSP;
- Familiarise their dispensing teams with the exact detail and requirements of the SSP;
- Re-familiarise themselves with the guidance and take any actions which they may need to prepare their dispensing teams; and
- Take the appropriate steps when dealing with prescriptions covered by the SSP.
CPNI colleagues will continue to support contractors and their staff throughout the coming weeks.
Kind regards
Mike
Sent on behalf of Prof Mike Mawhinney |Head of Regulatory Affairs
