A prescription states: 'Insulin Glargine 10 units QHS'. The prescriber's name and licence number are present, along with the date and patient's name and date of birth. What critical piece of information is missing from this prescription to allow for safe dispensing?

Question: A prescription states: 'Insulin Glargine 10 units QHS'. The prescriber's name and licence number are present, along with the date and patient's name and date of birth. What critical piece of information is missing from this prescription to allow for safe dispensing?

Answer options:

• The brand name of the insulin.
• The prescriber's signature.
• The specific type of insulin pen or syringe to be dispensed. ✅ The formulation of insulin (e.g., U-100, U-300).

Correct answer: The formulation of insulin (e.g., U-100, U-300).

Explanation: Insulin glargine is available in different concentrations (e.g., U-100 Lantus/Basaglar vs. U-300 Toujeo). Without specifying the concentration, there is a significant risk of dosing error if the wrong concentration is dispensed, leading to hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. The specific formulation is crucial for safe dispensing.