Procurement and storage

To ensure that medicines remain safe and effective when needed, certain rules must be followed during procurement and storage.

Medicines should be purchased in their original manufacturer’s packaging whenever possible. If a medicine is supplied under a brand name that differs from its generic name, an additional label showing the generic name should be attached. Each package must clearly display the dosage (such as milligrams per tablet or ampoule), expiry date, batch or control number, and the manufacturer’s details.

Medicines should be procured in smaller, practical quantities. For example, it is better to store tablets in containers of 100 rather than 500. Whenever possible, tablets, capsules, and similar forms should be individually packed and labelled.

All medicine containers must be dated when received. New stock should always be placed behind older stock to ensure proper rotation and use of medicines before expiry. When medicines are first received, all labels must be checked carefully to confirm that the correct drug and dosage have been supplied.

Storage conditions must also be carefully followed. If no specific temperature is mentioned, medicines should generally be kept at room temperature between 15°C and 25°C. Some medicines require refrigeration between 2°C and 5°C, but freezing must be avoided as it can damage the medicine or break ampoules.

Medicines must be protected from humidity and light. Tablets and powders should be stored in tightly closed containers, such as metal boxes or glass bottles with secure stoppers.

Controlled drugs like narcotics and stimulants must be clearly labelled as “CONTROLLED DRUG.” Other warning labels such as “POISON” or “FOR EXTERNAL USE” should also be applied where necessary.

Medicines obtained by individuals

When a seaman visits a doctor ashore, he should obtain a written prescription or note from the doctor. This note must clearly state the name of the medicine (preferably the pharmaceutical or generic name), along with instructions on how and when it should be taken.

When the seaman returns with the medicine, the instructions provided by the doctor must be checked carefully against the label on the medicine container to ensure accuracy. If there is any doubt or mismatch, the prescription should be verified, possibly by consulting a doctor through radio medical advice.