Pharmacy
Guidance Regarding the Dispensing of Antibiotics for Prophylactic Treatment Against Anthrax and Other Organisms
October 19, 2001
Dear Pharmacist:
The purpose of this letter is two-fold. First, we wish to thank every pharmacist who provided assistance to affected individuals during the recent terrorist attacks and the aftermath. Countless numbers of individuals were able to obtain essential medications, without interruption, despite the destruction or inaccessibility of many pharmacies in New York City. Second, we want to provide guidance regarding the dispensing of antibiotics for prophylactic treatment against Anthrax and other organisms.
The New York State Education Department's Office of the Professions, including the State Board of Pharmacy, is working with the New York State Department of Health to bring you timely information regarding the prescribing and dispensing of antibiotics for treatment/prophylaxis of bioterrorism. Please go to the Health Department website to view a letter being sent to all physicians and physician assistants by the New York State Department of Health. The information on that page will help you in educating and counseling your patients. Please pay particular attention to Section 1. Depending upon your practice location, individual sections may be appropriate to your needs.
Every pharmacist knows the dangers of the unwarranted use of prescription drugs, such as antibiotics. It is important for prescribers and pharmacists to remember certain key factors about antibiotic use. Among those factors are:
- Adverse effects of the medication
- Allergic reactions
- Drug-drug and drug-food interactions
- Development of drug resistant strains of bacteria
- Antibiotics do not provide any form of extended protection should a person later become exposed to a pathogen
- Not all antibiotics are indicated for children
- Not all antibiotics are indicated during pregnancy
Prescribers must use their professional judgment in evaluating the needs of their patients. Likewise, pharmacists may apply their independent judgment when a prescription is presented. Pharmacists may legally and ethically refuse to fill a prescription if they cannot be assured of the authenticity of the prescription or if they believe the prescription is intended for an unwarranted indication.
Part of the responsibility of our licensed health care professionals is to provide leadership and guidance at times such as these. Many patients will seek your advice based on your professional education and training. We know that we can count on you to meet your obligations in this matter just as you have in other emergencies.
If the Education Department and the State Board of Pharmacy can be of assistance to you regarding suspected hoarding of drugs or inappropriate prescribing, please contact us by phone 518-474-3817 ext. 130, fax 518-473-6995 or e-mail pharmbd@mail.nysed.gov. We hope this information is helpful.
Sincerely,
Johanna Duncan-Poitier
Deputy Commissioner for the Professions
Lawrence H. Mokhiber
Executive Secretary, New York State Board of Pharmacy
