Australian medication scheduling system i

What is the purpose of the Australian medication scheduling system?

To classify medicines based on their safety, potential for misuse, and required level of control

What is Schedule 2 (Pharmacy Medicine)?

Medicines purchased off the shelf from a pharmacy (e.g., antihistamines)

Can nurses or midwives initiate Schedule 2 medicines?

Yes, depending on hospital policy

What is Schedule 3 (Pharmacist Only Medicine)?

Medicines purchased from a pharmacy requiring pharmacist advice before administration (e.g., salbutamol)

Can nurses or midwives initiate Schedule 3 medicines?

Yes, depending on hospital policy

What is Schedule 4 (Prescription Only Medicine)?

Medicines requiring a prescription from a doctor, nurse practitioner, or certified midwife (e.g., antibiotics, antihypertensives)

What is Schedule 8 (Controlled Drug)?

Drugs with strict legal control over supply, storage, prescription, and disposal (e.g., morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl)

What is Schedule 9 (Prohibited Substance)?

Drugs restricted to research or analytical use only (e.g., heroin, MDMA)

What is Schedule 11 (Drugs of Dependence)?

Includes some Schedule 4 and 8 drugs with potential for abuse (e.g., midazolam, tramadol)

Why were codeine-containing medicines rescheduled?

Due to misuse and opioid dependence concerns

What is the significance of Alprazolam (Xanax) rescheduling?

It was moved to Schedule 8 due to high abuse potential and overdose risk

How should Schedule 4 medicines be stored?

In a locked facility such as a medication room, cupboard, trolley, or bedside drawer

Who can administer Schedule 4 medicines?

Registered nurses, enrolled nurses, or midwives with single or double checking

How should Schedule 8 and 11 medicines be stored?

In a locked medication safe affixed to the wall or floor to prevent theft

How should partially used Schedule 8 or 11 medicines be destroyed?

By two nurses/midwives or a nurse/midwife and a doctor/pharmacist

Who disposes of whole unused or expired medications?

The hospital pharmacist

What documentation is required for controlled drugs?

Entries in a Controlled Drug Recording Book or Ward Controlled Drugs Record Book

Why is documentation important for controlled drugs?

To ensure accountability, traceability, and compliance with legal requirements

What are examples of medication storage equipment?

Locked cabinets, medication trolleys, bedside drawers, and mobile carts