There are many times when an animal contracts a disease that requires the administration of drugs that fall under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Also called scheduled drugs, the distribution of these controlled medications are legally controlled for their abuse potential, lethal consequences when taken without prescription and illegal procurement probabilities.

Scheduled medicines are categorized into five schedules in terms of their therapeutic value, requirement for legitimate access and misuse potentials. Schedule 1 medicines have the highest restriction on their sale and distribution, while Schedule 5 has the lowest. A veterinary surgeon is allowed to prescribe drugs belonging to Schedule 2, 3, 4, 5 but not Schedule 1 drugs. These drugs have to be stored very carefully, out of reach of children or pets, at home or in attached clinics.

Controlled Medications: Rules for Storage

The following are certain tips on storing controlled medications in order to prevent any mishaps or emergencies:

Schedule 2 and 3 drugs have to be kept under lock and key. Ask for the veterinarian's suggestion regarding the type of cabinet it must be stored in. Ideally, such a cabinet should be attached to the building fabric. The specifications regarding safes, cabinets or storage rooms are detailed in the CSA website. There are also special storage boxes that can be attached to cars. These drugs must be compulsorily kept in these boxes while traveling. A locked bag can be used temporarily in case a veterinarian requires the medicines on a house call. However, they must not be left unattended for a long time period. Access to the scheduled drug cabinet must be restricted and the keys to it must be in the hands of someone responsible. Keys to the controlled medications cabinet must not be hung on a communal key ring. In a clinic, a key register should be maintained in order to keep track of the usage of the keys. (Usually there is a caretaker for the night and another during the day.) Each veterinary surgeon can have a new key issued for their individual access. About the Author:

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