Alternatives to prescriptions for the supply and administration of POMs.

The Medicines Act 1968 and its regulations authorize the supply and administration of prescription only medicines (POMs). The 1968 Act generally requires an appropriate practitioner to provide a prescription for the supply of such drugs. The Prescription Only Medicines (Human Use) Order 1997, allows for a more flexible approach to the supply and administration of prescription only medicines through the use of Patient Specific Directions (PSDs) and Patient Group Directions (PGDs). This article outlines the legal requirements for a valid prescription, PSD and PGD.