3.01 Unit-dose dispensing should be correctly used
In connection with unit-dose dispensing the medicine to be taken at a specific time is packed in a small plastic bag. A bag is packed for each time medicine is to be taken. The bags are suspended in chronological order in a long line so that it will be easy to see when the next portion of medicine is to be taken.
Lif finds that unit-dose dispensing is a good tool which for some groups of patients can contribute to ensuring a rational use of medicine so that ”the right medicine is taken at the right time”.
It is essential that unit-dose dispensing is backed up by thorough information to each patient.
If unit-dose dispensing is used, it is important that the shelf life of the packed products is tested. The documentation hereof must reflect the current status with respect to storage, manufacturing and filling so that the result is in compliance with the demands placed on industry as regards changes in manufacturing conditions.
Lif believes:
- that the authorities should spot check that the quality of the various unit doses is satisfactory,
- that unit-dose packing for more than two weeks’ consumption is only possible if the documentation of the shelf life of the unit-dose dispensed medicines reflects the actual conditions to which the products have been subject,
- that the workload connected with unit-dose dispensing of medicines is fully covered by fees,
- that reimbursement for the unit-dose packed medicines follows the current reimbursement rules governing substitution rules, reimbursement prices, etc.
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