Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) Practice Exam

Which drug does not require child-resistant packaging according to the Poison Prevention Packaging Act?

1. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets

2. Isosorbide dinitrate oral tablets

3. Nitroglycerin sustained release capsules

4. Isosorbide mononitrate oral tablets

The correct answer is: Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets

Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are exempt from the child-resistant packaging requirements established by the Poison Prevention Packaging Act. This exemption is primarily due to the critical and immediate nature of how nitroglycerin is used, typically in emergency situations for angina attacks. The need for rapid access to the medication outweighs the potential risk of accidental ingestion by children. In contrast, other formulations, such as isosorbide dinitrate oral tablets and isosorbide mononitrate oral tablets, do not enjoy the same exemption. These drugs are used for the prevention of chest pain but do not have the same urgent use case as nitroglycerin. Therefore, they are subject to child-resistant packaging regulations to reduce the risk of accidental ingestion by children. This distinction highlights the balancing act of ensuring both safety and accessibility of medications that may be needed urgently.