�The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) supports the National Drugs and Poisons Schedule Committee (NDPSC) decision to keep the current scheduling status for ibuprofen-codeine combination pain-relief products piece it considers potential limits to pack sizes.
The NDPSC in public released the results of decisions made at its June meeting. The disc of reasons can be found here.
"PSA has argued that the stream status for combination ibuprofen-codeine products is appropriate as it maintains access for consumers to these utilitarian medicines," PSA Immediate Past President Brian Grogan said.
"It is clear that the NDPSC has given exhaustive 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 mindful that in some jurisdictions pockets of possible misuse of codeine-ibuprofen combination products have been observed.
"However, we think the horizontal surface of possible misuse is not regarded as far-flung and, in most instances, pharmacists take been tortuous in providing appropriate interventions.
"Although some cases of misuse of a particular combination product - with serious health outcomes - have been published, the numbers ar small and the incidents have been reported to be 'unusual'.
"PSA is not aware of any published evidence of widespread misuse asunder from paper articles based on anecdotal reports.
"PSA believes the decision reinforces pharmacists' character in promoting the earmark use of medicines.
"Community pharmacy has procedures in place to minimise misuse of these and former products and pharmacists testament continue to play their part in providing steering 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 drive home targeted tone 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 pattern, education, grooming and practice support for pharmacists and helps members of the profession to deliver lineament health care to consumers.
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