Pharmacy Law, Ethics and Professional Practice in Brazil
Core concepts
Know the Brazilian regulatory framework: the Lei Federal 5.991/1973 (pharmaceutical practice), Lei 9.782/1999 (Anvisa creation), RDC resolutions governing dispensing, and the Código de Ética Farmacêutica (Federal Pharmacy Council). Understand the role of the Conselho Federal de Farmácia (CFF) and regional councils (CRF), professional registration, and the prohibition of dispensing without a valid prescription for prescription-only medicines. Know the rules for controlled substances (Portaria 344/1998 and its updates), including prescription retention and notification requirements.
Traps in questions
A frequent trap is confusing Anvisa (regulatory agency, health surveillance) with the CFF/CRF (professional councils, ethical discipline). Another is assuming pharmacists may substitute brands freely - substitution requires bioequivalence and specific rules. Watch for questions on confidentiality and conflict of interest, and on the prohibition of practicing without registration.
Worked rule of thumb
Use the "who regulates what" rule: Anvisa regulates products and marketing authorisation; CFF/CRF regulate the professional and ethical conduct. For controlled substances, always check the current Portaria 344 list and the notification requirements before dispensing.