Good Practice Guidance for Prescribing Quantities v2.2 - June 2020

Good Practice Guidance for Prescribing Quantities Version 2.2 Page 1 of 4 June 2020 The following list provides suggested limits when prescribing ‘as directed or ‘when required’ items, based on the most common or maximum doses. Clinicians should review and adjust based on individual patient need and previous prescribing history. It has been calculated to show worked examples for items dispensed on a 56 week SRx with the quantities and dispensing frequency required. Good practice statements: "Full, clear administration directions help patients understand how to use their medications properly and aid compliance. The use of ‘prn’ and ‘mdu’ is no longer considered good practice and should not be used. Exceptions to this, perhaps where dosage is adjusted according to need, e.g. warfarin, should be explicitly stated in the practice policy." 'Saving time, helping patients - a good practice guide to quality repeat prescribing' National Prescribing Centre, January 2004 "Dose and dose frequency should be stated; in the case of preparations to be taken ‘as required’ a minimum dose interval should be specified." Prescription Writing. British National Formulary

Medicine / Medicine Type	Strength / Dose / Detail (if applicable)	Approx quantity for 12 months	Suggested Limit in 12 months	Total quantity on SRx	56 wk frequency
Indigestion Remedies e.g. Gaviscon®, Peptac®	Gaviscon® 80-120 ml per day Peptac® 80ml per day	81 x 500ml	Practically, this is likely to be equivalent to 3500ml/annum	7 Bottles	8 Weekly
Laxatives e.g. lactulose, senna		54 x 500ml	Practically, this is likely to be equivalent to 3500ml/annum	7 Bottles	8 Weekly