October 24th 2024.
Many households in Australia rely on the common painkiller, paracetamol, to alleviate their everyday aches and pains. However, changes are on the horizon as the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) implements new reforms surrounding the availability of paracetamol. In preparation for these changes, packets of Panadol, a popular brand of paracetamol, are now being sold in smaller amounts. Previously containing 20 tablets per pack, they have now been reduced to 16.
This shift in pack size is a result of the TGA's efforts to minimize the risk of serious injury and accidental overdoses related to paracetamol. The changes will be applied to all paracetamol products in February, with Haleon ANZ, the pharmaceutical company behind Panadol, ensuring a smooth transition with no supply issues. Elena Pintado, the Head of Pain at Haleon ANZ, expressed the company's commitment to this process, stating that there is a significant effort being made to maintain a continuous supply of paracetamol products across the country.
Bulk packs of Panadol, typically sold in pharmacies, will also be affected by these changes. In New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory, these bulk packs will be reduced by 50%, from 100 tablets to 50. Furthermore, packs containing up to 100 tablets or capsules will only be available behind the counter, through a pharmacist. Similarly, in Queensland and Western Australia, only a maximum of 16 tablets will be available over the counter, with larger packs requiring customers to consult a pharmacist.
The TGA's decision to implement these changes was based on an independent report commissioned to investigate paracetamol overdoses. According to Dr. Rose Cairns, one of the report's authors, overdosing on paracetamol can have severe consequences, especially for the liver. She also noted that these changes will bring Australia in line with many other countries that already have smaller pack sizes as the standard.
It is important to note that these changes are not a complete ban on paracetamol. People will still have access to larger pack sizes if needed, but they will have to go through a pharmacist. As a result of the smaller pack sizes, the price of Panadol will also decrease, while still maintaining its effectiveness, according to Pintado. In summary, these changes aim to promote responsible use of paracetamol and ensure the safety of those who rely on it for pain relief.
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