Fraudulent Private Prescriptions Alert – Codeine linctus 15mg/5ml x 400ml

Pharmacy teams in Hertfordshire are being alerted to a rise in fraudulent private prescriptions for Codeine linctus 15mg/5ml (400ml).

This issue was first reported in the Community Pharmacist newsletter by the HWE Pharmacy and Medicine Optimisation Team on 16 January. To date, nine incidents have been reported at pharmacies across Hertfordshire, with similar activity identified in other areas of the East of England. These incidents are not isolated and further attempts may occur.

The Controlled Drugs Accountable Officer (CDAO) and local police are aware and investigations are ongoing.

Action required by pharmacy teams:

Pharmacy teams should remain vigilant and carefully check the validity of all NHS and private paper prescriptions, particularly handwritten prescriptions. This includes:

• Checking the identity of the individual presenting the prescription, before they sign for a prescription

• Checking prescriber details

• Seeking patient consent to access the Summary Care Record to verify prescription validity

• Contacting the prescriber where consent is not given or access is not possible

If a prescription is suspected to be fraudulent, it must not be dispensed and should be reported immediately to the relevant Controlled Drugs Liaison Officer (CDLO) or local police, in line with standard procedures. Where possible, retain the prescription securely in a clear plastic wallet to minimise handling and avoid putting staff at risk.

All suspected fraudulent prescriptions, including those that may already have been dispensed, should be reported via www.cdreporting.co.uk. Pharmacy teams should also record details of the person presenting the prescription, retain any relevant CCTV footage, and share this alert widely within their teams.

Continued vigilance is essential to protect patient safety and prevent misuse.