PSA Supports NDPSC Decision On Ibuprofen-Codeine Products

Main Category: Pain / Anesthetics
Also Included In: Regulatory Affairs / Drug Approvals;  Pharma Industry / Biotech Industry
Article Date: 11 Aug 2008 - 4:00 PDT

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The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) supports the National Drugs and Poisons Schedule Committee (NDPSC) decision to maintain the current scheduling status for ibuprofen-codeine combination pain-relief products while it considers potential limits to pack sizes.

The NDPSC publicly released the results of decisions made at its June meeting. The record of reasons can be found here.

"PSA has argued that the current status for combination ibuprofen-codeine products is appropriate as it maintains access for consumers to these useful medicines," PSA Immediate Past President Brian Grogan said.

"It is clear that the NDPSC has given thorough consideration to the issues involved and they should be commended for their efforts," Mr Grogan said.

"PSA will be considering the foreshadowed proposals in relation to pack sizes and providing input into the consultation process.

"We have argued that decisions such as this should weigh up the benefits for the majority of the community who use these medicines appropriately compared to the risks of misuse.

"Based on feedback from its members, PSA is aware that in some jurisdictions pockets of possible misuse of codeine-ibuprofen combination products have been observed.

"However, we believe the level of possible misuse is not regarded as widespread and, in most instances, pharmacists have been involved in providing appropriate interventions.

"Although some cases of misuse of a particular combination product - with serious health outcomes - have been published, the numbers are small and the incidents have been reported to be 'unusual'.

"PSA is not aware of any published evidence of widespread misuse apart from newspaper articles based on anecdotal reports.

"PSA believes the decision reinforces pharmacists' role in promoting the appropriate use of medicines.

"Community pharmacy has procedures in place to minimise misuse of these and other products and pharmacists will continue to play their part in providing guidance on appropriate use.

"PSA has been canvassing opportunities for providing education and up-to-date information to pharmacists and other pharmacy staff about possible misuse of products containing codeine.

"PSA would welcome working in partnership with relevant sponsors and government to help pharmacists deliver targeted quality use of medicines messages to the public."

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia is the organisation that represents the professional interests of Australia's 18,000 pharmacists. It provides standards of practice, education, training and practice support for pharmacists and helps members of the profession to deliver quality health care to consumers.

Pharmaceutical Society of Australia