What Are NAPRA's National Drug Schedules (NDS)?
Overview
The National Drug Schedules (NDS) by the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) categorize drugs into three main schedules and one unscheduled category. This system helps regulate the sale and distribution of drugs in Canada.
Schedule I Drugs
- Prescription Required: These drugs require a prescription for sale.
- Professional Supervision: Dispensed by a pharmacist following a diagnosis and professional intervention.
- Regulated Sale Environment: Controlled as per provincial pharmacy legislation.
Schedule II Drugs
- No Prescription Required: Available without a prescription.
- Pharmacist Intervention: Requires professional intervention by a pharmacist at the point of sale.
- Restricted Access: Must be kept in an area of the pharmacy without public access.
Schedule III Drugs
- Self-Selection Allowed: Available for self-selection but under pharmacist supervision.
- Risk to Certain Populations: May pose risks if improperly selected.
- Pharmacist Assistance: Pharmacist is available to assist in self-medication decisions.
Unscheduled Drugs
- No Professional Supervision Needed: Can be sold without professional oversight.
- Adequate Labeling: Sufficient information and labeling ensure safe use.
- General Sale: Can be sold in any retail outlet.
Additional Information
Contact Information
- Address: M6151554 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario K1Z 7M4, Canada
- Phone: 1 (613) 569-9658
- Email: [email protected]
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