All strong opioids are POM Schedule 2 Controlled Drugs. This means that they are subject to prescription and storage requirements. Midazolam injection 10mg in 2ml is a Schedule 3 Controlled Drug. Prescriptions for Schedule 2 and 3 Controlled Drugs must meet the legal requirements and must be signed by the prescriber, be dated and specify the prescriber's address. It is illegal to dispense a controlled drug unless all of the information required by law is given on the prescription.

This includes:

• Name and address of patient
• The form and, where appropriate, the strength of the preparation
• The total quantity to be supplied in words AND figures*
• The dose

*Pharmacists can amend the prescription if the total quantity is specified in words but not figures, or if it contains minor typographical errors. At times, particularly during the out of hours period, pharmacists may be faced with an ethical dilemma when presented with an incorrect (illegal) prescription. The primary concern of the pharmacist should be the patient, and any decision made should be in the patient's best interest. It is therefore advisable to keep a record of the decisionmaking process.