Original Pack Dispensing (+/- 10%)
From 1 January 2025, pharmacists will have the flexibility to dispense +/-10% of the prescribed quantity to use the manufacturer’s original packaging, where clinically
appropriate.
• Mandatory consideration: OPD must be assessed for all NHS prescriptions.
• Key exemptions: Not suitable for medicines requiring exact quantities (e.g., antibiotics or steroids).
Applicability Table:
Product Type OPD +/-10% Applies?
Prescription Only Medicines (POMs) ✅ Yes
Schedule 5 Controlled Drugs (Only) ✅ Yes
Non-POMs (e.g., food supplements) ❌ No (see below)
Note: Reimbursement for OPD +/-10% dispensing will only apply to EPS prescriptions.
Key Features of OPD
• Flexibility in Quantity:
Pharmacists can dispense up to 10% more or less than the prescribed quantity to align with the original manufacturer’s pack.
• Professional Judgment Required: OPD may not suit cases like short courses of antibiotics or steroids, where dispensing only the exact prescribed amount is preferable.
Enhanced Patient Safety
• Patient receives the manufacturer’s leaflet, ensuring proper usage.
• Retains important details such
as the expiry date and batch number.
• Reduces risk of contamination or loss of tablets during repackaging.
Efficiency Gains:
• Eliminates repackaging tasks, saving time for pharmacy staff.
• Streamlines dispensing operations.
Excluded
Items
• Over-the-counter (OTC) medications (P and GSL).
• Most appliances.
• Controlled Drugs (Schedules 1–4).
• Unlicensed specials, SSPs (Serious Shortage Protocols), and PGDs (Patient Group Directions).
Professional
Considerations
• Ensure that OPD is suitable for the patient’s specific treatment needs.
• Remain compliant with regulatory restrictions on eligible items.
• Use OPD to optimise workflow while maintaining high standards of care.
Sodium Valproate Regulations
From 11 October 2023, all
sodium valproate-containing medicines must be dispensed in complete manufacturer’s packs unless an exception is justified (e.g., monitored dosage systems with a PIL supplied).
• Why the change? To support the Pregnancy Prevention Programme (PPP) and
minimise risks during pregnancy.
• Reimbursement: Adjusted automatically for full-pack quantities, no endorsement required.
For further details, read the
updated CPE guidance and FAQ section here.
Actions Required:
1. Familiarise pharmacy teams with the OPD +/-10% rules.
2. Ensure compliance with sodium valproate full-pack dispensing regulations immediately.
3. Update pharmacy systems and stock processes in alignment with the new rules.
