Hours of learning: 2

Tutor(s) Ms Roisin McQuillan, Pharmacy Advisor, SPPG

Aim
To increase awareness of the misuse of prescription and over the counter medicines and to equip pharmacists working within the primary care sector to support and implement strategies to address such misuse.

Intended learning outcomes
Having completed this workshop you will be able to:

• identify the prescription and over the counter medicines that are subject to misuse
• list the symptoms of addiction that an individual may experience
• understand the strategies available to restrict access and reduce the risks and harms associated with addictive medicines
• support primary care colleagues and patients to implement strategies to address prescription and over the counter drug misuse.

For whom
All pharmacists working within primary care. Misuse of prescription and/or OTC medication can be a problem for many within our society. Community pharmacists have a core role in supporting such patients and promoting the safe and effective use of these medicines.