A prescription written in Greek from Greece for salbutamol inhaler for asthma is presented for urgent relief. What is the correct action?

• A. Supply as emergency with counselling
• B. Refuse due to non-UK origin
• C. Wait for translation
• D. Ask for English version

Answer: (A)

The situation tests the ability to apply emergency supply rules for prescription-only medicines. When a patient has an urgent need for a reliever inhaler like salbutamol to treat acute asthma symptoms, a pharmacist may provide a short-term emergency supply without a new UK prescription, as long as the medicine is appropriate and safe for the patient and proper counselling is given. A prescription written in Greek from Greece can be accepted as evidence of a prescription, and delaying treatment because the document isn’t in English isn’t appropriate if the pharmacist can confirm the essential details (drug name, strength, dosage form) and ensure safe use. Supplying now with clear counselling on inhaler technique, dosing, and when to seek further medical advice is the priority to relieve the urgent symptoms. Refusing, waiting for translation, or asking for an English version would unnecessarily delay relief and could worsen the patient’s condition.