Changes to the way paracetamol is sold come into effect from February 1

Changes to Paracetamol Sales: What You Need to Know Starting February 1, 2025

Starting tomorrow, major changes are coming to the way paracetamol is sold in Australia, following a decision by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in 2023. As of February 1, 2025, non-pharmacy retailers—such as supermarkets—will only be allowed to sell 16-tablet packs of paracetamol, replacing the 20-tablet packs that have been widely available. These changes aim to address growing concerns about the misuse of paracetamol, particularly the dangerous consequences of overdosing on the medication.

Key Changes to Paracetamol Regulations

The most significant change is that packs of paracetamol containing 20 tablets or more will no longer be available in non-pharmacy retailers. If you need larger quantities, you will only be able to purchase them from a pharmacy. This regulation also applies to cold and flu medicines that contain paracetamol.

Pharmacies themselves will also face new rules. Starting tomorrow, the maximum number of tablets or capsules pharmacies can sell over-the-counter will be reduced from 100 per box to just 50. Packs containing more than 50 tablets will only be available behind the counter, meaning you'll need to ask a pharmacist to access them.

The new regulations will vary by state. In Queensland and Western Australia, customers will need to speak with a pharmacist before purchasing packs with more than 16 tablets.

Why Are These Changes Happening?

The changes come in response to concerning levels of paracetamol overdoses. On average, around 225 people are hospitalized each year in Australia due to liver injury caused by paracetamol misuse, and tragically, around 50 people die from overdosing. The issue is particularly prevalent among young adults and adolescents, who have the highest rates of intentional overdose.

The goal of these new regulations is to help prevent accidental or intentional overdoses, as well as to reduce the overall harm caused by this widely-used painkiller.

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

If you're used to picking up a larger pack of paracetamol at your local supermarket, you'll need to adjust your shopping habits. From now on, only 16-tablet packs will be available in supermarkets and other non-pharmacy retailers. If you need a larger quantity, you can still find it at pharmacies, but be prepared for a change in how these products are sold.

For anyone needing extra support, there are resources available to help. You can contact the National Alcohol and Other Drug hotline at 1800 250 015, or reach out to the Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 if you're under 25.

What Happens Next?

The changes to paracetamol sales are just one of several measures being taken to improve public health and prevent overdoses. With these new regulations, authorities hope to reduce the number of incidents involving paracetamol misuse and encourage safer usage of this common painkiller.

Stay informed, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to speak with your pharmacist for more details about how these changes might affect your purchasing habits.

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