OTC Codeine Ban

Medsafe is seeking advice on any barriers to implementation of a proposed reclassification of combination medicines containing codeine to prescription only, with the change scheduled for implementation from 31 Jan 2020. The long lead-time is in part to allow for the development of a real-time monitoring system, which would cover restricted and prescription medicines prescribed and dispensed across NZ.

“Medsafe alongside the Ministry of Health should explore how the Committee could advocate a monitoring  system,” according to the minutes of the Medicines Classification Committee meeting in Nov, which were published in final form last week.

The agency noted that there were no objections received in the 10 business days following the publication of the recommendations. The proposal would see medicines with codeine as the only active ingredient reclassified as a “restricted medicine” (Pharmacist Only) for oral use in adults and children over 12 in medicines containing not more than 15mg per solid dosage unit, with a maximum daily dose not exceeding 90mg of codeine for use as an analgesic and when sold in a pack of not more than three days’ supply.

Other codeine-only products would become prescription only, along with all codeine in combination medicines including both analgesics and cough/cold medications.  

The Committee also recommended that bodies including the NZ Pharmacy Guild, Pharmaceutical Society of NZ, NZ Medical Association and the Pharmacy Council of NZ be written to “regarding the importance of better education and professional development for health professionals regarding acute and chronic pain management”.

Source: pharmacydaily.com.au, Tuesday 10 April 2018