Four categories of medications

Many of us who aren’t involved in pharmaceuticals may be unaware that medications are grouped into four categories, based on how they’re prescribed and sold to the general public.

If you look after medicines as a professional or a carer, it may give you confidence to attend a course on the safe handling of medication, such as those offered by specialists like https://www.tidaltraining.co.uk/health-and-social-care-courses/safe-handling-of-medication-training/.

Let’s look at the different categories of medications.

General Sales

As you may expect from the name, medicines in this category are generally available for purchase in chemists, shops and supermarkets without any major legal restrictions – although typically, you have to be 18 or older to purchase them. This includes things like paracetamol, vitamins, and cold remedies.

Over the Counter Medicines

Medicines in this category have a ‘P’ on the packaging, and are stored behind pharmacy counters, ensuring staff can chat with patients first to ensure it is a safe and appropriate medicine. While sometimes these used to be on prescription, the NHS is trying to reduce this as it is costly according to the NHS website.

Prescription Only

Prescription only medicines have to be prescribed by a Doctor and are only for use by that patient. With some, there’s a risk of addiction if misused. This category may include insulin or sleeping tablets.

Controlled Drugs

Lastly, controlled drugs also require a Doctor’s prescription, but since they are even more serious drugs with potentially serious consequences if misused, they’re subject to restrictions on how they’re stored and dispensed.