Controlled drugs
Controlled drugs are medicines that are strictly regulated in most countries. Their use and distribution are limited, and they usually require a prescription. Some drugs, such as morphine, are subject to very strict legal controls due to their potential for misuse.
A ship must not carry controlled drugs in quantities greater than those specified in the official medicine list, unless a doctor has specifically authorized a larger amount for valid medical reasons.
These drugs must only be obtained from a licensed supplier, such as a registered pharmacist. The supplier will require a formal written order before providing the drugs. This order must be signed either by the shipowner or the ship’s master.
Requisition of controlled drugs
When requesting controlled drugs, a formal requisition must be prepared. It should be addressed to an authorized supplier and include full details such as the name and address of the supplier, the name of the ship, and the name of the master or shipowner. The address of the ship or owner should also be included.
The request must clearly state the name of the drug, its strength, and the quantity required. It should also mention that the drugs are intended for the medical stores of the vessel. The document must be signed, with the name written in capital letters, along with the occupation and the date.
Record keeping and regulations
In some countries, regulations require that every medical treatment given on board must be recorded in the ship’s logbook. This includes details of the type and quantity of medicines administered.
For controlled drugs, stricter record-keeping is required. The ship’s master must maintain a special register, usually in a bound book, divided into two sections. This register must record complete details of all transactions involving controlled drugs, including when and why they were purchased, stored, used, or disposed of, along with the quantities involved.
This register must be preserved for at least two years after the final entry has been made.