TGA Launches Codeine Strategy

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has launched the first stage of communications to consumers about the rescheduling of codeine effective 01 Feb 2018, and is highlighting the importance of pharmacists in minimising harm from the medication.

A new “consumer fact sheet” about the changes has been issued, with the TGA saying “most people should be able to manage acute pain or cough and cold symptoms with safer alternative medicines”. For acute pain this may include products containing paracetamol or ibuprofen, or the two products in combination, the document states. “Your pharmacist will be able to provide advice on the most appropriate medicines for you... speaking with your pharmacist is particularly important if you have any other medical conditions such as stomach, kidney, liver or heart problems,” the TGA advises.

Doctors also have a role to play, with people experiencing ongoing pain urged to speak to their GP to determine better alternative treatment options such as other OTC or prescription medicines or “non-medicine therapies from an allied health professional”.

The TGA has confirmed the establishment of the Nationally Coordinated Codeine Implementation Working Group (NCCIWG) including representatives from state and territory health departments and peak bodies representing consumers, pharmacists and medical professionals. The NCCIWG’s purpose is to “assist with the implementation of a communication and engagement strategy to help inform the community of the upcoming changes to the availability of lowdose codeine containing medicines from 1 February 2018”.

Source: pharmacydaily.com.au, Tuesday 11 April 2017