​​November 2024

Reminder for Pharmacists: Requirement to verify Schedule 8 Prescriptions  

​Individuals are using elaborate forgery schemes to obtain Schedule 8 medicines. Examples include requests made via email by a ‘prescriber’ with the ‘patient’ presenting late in the day to collect the medicine. The pharmacist does not receive a valid prescription within 7 days, as is legally required. 

To prevent unlawful diversion, misuse, or oversupply of these high-risk medicines, we would like to remind pharmacists of their obligation to verify Schedule 8 prescriptions prior to dispensing. 

When presented with a prescription or a request to dispense a Schedule 8 medicine: 

  • Verify Schedule 8 prescriptions by ensuring that, in addition to meeting prescription requirements for a valid Schedule 8 medicine, you either know the patient or prescriber, or you confirm the prescription is valid with the prescriber. Do not assume the contact details on the prescription to be accurate. Independent verification with the prescriber is recommended.
  • If verification is not possible and there is no reason to suspect the prescription’s validity, up to 2 days’ supply of the medicine may be dispensed. The prescription must be retained for future verification. 
  • Do not dispense suspicious prescriptions that appear to be forged, altered, or fraudulently obtained. Retain the prescription and notify the police by contacting your local police station.​​
  • Use SafeScript NSW​ for real-time patient’s prescription history for high-risk medicines. In most instances, computer-generated and e-prescriptions are listed as a prescribed event under the patient profile. 
  • Check the Pharmaceutical Services website for all reported lost, stolen, or forged prescriptions. 
  • Telephone, email, or fax prescriptions must be issued by the prescriber and sent to the dispensing pharmacist within 24 hours. The prescription must indicate it was issued verbally or via email or fax. If not received within 7 days, the pharmacist must report it to the Pharmaceutical Services Unit via email at MOH-PharmaceuticalServices@health.nsw.gov.au ​
​​By following these guidelines, pharmacists can help combat prescription misuse and ensure the safety of their patients. ​


​​​​​​​​​September 2024​

The Pharmaceutical Services Unit (PSU) has introduced a new Online Enquiry Form

After reviewing how people reach us and in an effort to streamline communication and enhance user experience, Pharmaceutical Services is transitioning from the telephone-based Duty Pharmaceutical Officer (DPO) service to a new Online Enquiry Form. This initiative aims to simplify the process for reaching out and improve efficiency and consistency of responses. Responses will be provided within 5 business days.

Our commitment is to make PSU accessible and facilitate easier access to the information you need.  We are also reviewing our website to better serve you. We encourage you to browse our Information Directory and use the online enquiry form for all future enquiries and feedback. Please note the DPO service will cease on 7 October 2024.


Pharmacies and vapes: A critical role in safe access and compliance

From 1 October 2024 therapeutic vapes containing up to 20mg/mL nicotine will be available in pharmacies for Schedule 3 supply to patients 18 years or over.

The Pharmaceutical Service Unit eCigarette Compliance Team will provide support to wholesalers, pharmacies, and practitioners regarding regulatory compliance. This team will also be responsible for ensuring legal obligations are met, and responsible practices are in place to protect public health and safety.

Information for pharmacists is available at the TGA Vaping Hub and the Pharmaceutical Services Unit (PSU) Nicotine Vaping webpage.​​


July 2024​

Requirements for dispensing Schedule 8 psychostimulant medicines

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Pharmaceutical Services Unit (PSU) ​is reminding pharmacists of the legislative requirements for dispensing Schedule 8 prescriptions for psychostimulant medicines such as dexamfetamine, lisdexamfetamine or methylph​enidate. Find out more about the requirements for dispensing Schedule 8 psychostimulant medicines.


Current as at: Monday 11 November 2024
Contact page owner: Pharmaceutical Services