Dear eFOI user,
Thank you for your request dated Sept. 5, 2024, made under Executive Order No. 2 (s. 2016) on Freedom of Information in the Executive Branch.
I am pleased to inform you that your FOI request has been approved. Enclosed herewith, you will find a copy of the information you have requested.
You have asked for a clarification about the use of the phrase “as needed” in triplicate prescriptions for dangerous drugs, if it should be accepted and dispensed. “As needed” is not accepted or authorized. The doctor's order or direction for use should be precise because this will be the basis of the pharmacists in dispensing, considering that we do not already have the specific quantity that can be dispensed per prescription. The quantity to be dispensed depends on the direction of use based on the doctor's diagnosis. Under Sec 31 para 4 (a&c) of the BR No1, s 2014, the pharmacist shall not reduce the quantity specified in the prescription unless by reason of lack of stock or the prescription holder asks for the reduction in quantity due to budgetary constraints. The pharmacist shall follow the order and instruction of the physician as written on the prescription. The dispensing pharmacist shall affix his/her signature on the face of the prescription and shall be made accountable for any violation that may be committed. Please find attached the link to the Board Regulation N. 1, s. 2014 for reference:
https://ddb.gov.ph//images/Board_Regulation/2014/BD.REG1.14.pdf
If you are dissatisfied with our response to your FOI request, you have the option to request an internal review. To initiate this process, kindly submit your written appeal for review addressed to [insert name of Secretary and postal/e-mail address]. Please provide a detailed explanation of your dissatisfaction with our response within 15 calendar days from the date of receiving this response. We will conduct the review and communicate the outcome within 30 calendar days from the receipt of your review request.
Should you remain unsatisfied with the review outcome, you retain the right to appeal to the Office of the President under Administrative Order No. 22 (s. 2011).
Thank you.
Respectfully,
FOI Officer
Dangerous Drugs Board
