Paracetamol changes in Australia as max number of Panadol, Panamax pills lowered
There is going to be a big change in the way Aussies buy household medicines like Panadol
- Reduce maximum number of pills in packs of paracetamol
- Non-pharmacy packs drop from 20 to 16 pills
- Customers may be limited to one or two per person
Australians are not allowed to buy so many paracetamol pills at once due to sweeping new changes.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration announced on Wednesday that they will be lowering the maximum number of pills within a package of acetaminophen-based drugs such as Panadol, Panamax or Chemists’ Own.
For over-the-counter boxes of paracetamol, the maximum number of pills is reduced from 20 to 16.
For packages of paracetamol bought in pharmacies, the maximum amount is reduced from 100 to 50, more will have to be bought under the supervision of a druggist.
Packaged acetaminophen pills, such as Panadol or Panamax, will feature a reduced number of pills from February 2025 in an effort to curb acetaminophen overdoses (stock image)
Individual paracetamol packages in liquid and powder form are also being phased out.
“Access to liquid modified-release acetaminophen and schedule 4 (prescription only) is not affected by this decision,” reads a release from the TGA.
The decision came after consultation from February to March to change the classification of paracetamol in the Poison Standard.
“In the final decision, feedback was carefully considered and a balance was struck between the need for some pack size restrictions while ensuring continued access to larger packs for people who require regular pain relief,” the statement read.
The changes will take effect February 1, 2025, in an effort to curb acetaminophen overdose nationwide.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration will lower the maximum number of pills in non-pharmacy stores from 20 to 16 and may limit each person to one or two packs (stock image)
“Each year in Australia, approximately 225 people are hospitalized and 50 Australians die from paracetamol overdose,” the press release reads.
“Intentional overdose rates are highest among adolescents and young adults.
“To further minimize the harm of paracetamol overdose, the TGA encourages retailers, such as supermarkets, to limit sales to a single pack at a time.”
They also advised households not to stockpile acetaminophen products to reduce the risk of overdoses.
For confidential support, call Lifeline’s 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14.