Labelling Requirements, dispensing and selling of Controlled Medicines

Patients have the right to be informed of the name of their medicine. In fact, the name of any Controlled Medicine dispensed to patients must be labelled on the medicine envelop or container. Both brand names such as Epilim (R) or generic names such as salmeterol can be used on the label.

According to the Poisons Regulation 1952 (amended since July 2003), pharmacists and doctors must label containers containing scheduled poisons with the word Controlled Medicines and the name of medicines, name and address of supplier, name of patient, adequate directions on its use and the serial number of entry recorded in the "Prescrition Book". Therefore, patients are advised to ensure that the containers of medicines received form private practitioners, dentists and pharmacists are labelled with the required information.

Under the Poisons Act 1952 also controlled medicines must be handed to patients or consumers by the doctors, pharmacists or dentists. It is an offence for the clinic or shop assistant to supply medicines to patients. The act of supplying medicines by registered general practitioner, pharmacist or dentist themselves is to safeguard the patients, as these professionals can give the appropriate instructions and information about the medicines to patients.

(Source: www.pharmacy.gov.my)