CHP Australia’s statement on the TGA’s interim decision on scheduling of Paracetamol

03 February 2023 – 

Consumer Healthcare Products Australia (CHP Australia) would like to acknowledge and commend the TGA’s interim decision on the scheduling of paracetamol. Their interim decision is a detailed and well considered response to balance community access to everyday pain relief, alongside the potential for intentional misuse.

In line with the consultation process, CHP Australia will review the interim decision, in collaboration with our members, policymakers and other stakeholders.

The Interim decision outlines the following measures:

• reduce the maximum size of packs available for general sale from 20 to 16 tablets or capsules, with a requirement for blister packaging.
• reduce the maximum size of packs available in pharmacies without supervision of a pharmacist from 100 to 32 tablets or capsules, with a requirement for blister packaging.
• make other pack sizes up to 100 tablets or capsules only available under the supervision of a pharmacist.

Pack size reductions will also be applied to sachets, powders, and combination products.

As the association representing manufacturers and distributors of non-prescription medicines, including over-the-counter pain medicines, CHP Australia and our members share the community’s deep concern regarding the many complex factors, including those related to mental health, involved in the misuse of medicines.

CHP Australia was among the early advocates for Australia’s Quality Use of Medicines policy, and remains absolutely committed to supporting medicines safety. We will continue to work with policymakers and regulators in pursuit of this goal, while also balancing the proven public health value in ensuring consumers have convenient access to everyday pain relief when needed.

We encourage those with questions or concerns about their medicines to speak with their healthcare professional.

CHP Australia supports the use of the Mindframe guidelines when communicating about the international misuse of medicines.

If you or someone you know are experiencing signs or symptoms of poor mental health, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional or contact one of the services below (dial 000 in an emergency):

Lifeline Australia 13 11 14

Suicide Call Back 1300 659 467

Kids Help Line 1800 551 800

National Indigenous Postvention Service After Suicide Support 1800 805 801

BeyondBlue 1300 224 636

eheadspace 1800 650 890