RPS calls for tighter controls on paracetamol packs
by Pharmacy Life - Published on 08 February 2013
New research published in the BMJ has shown that limiting paracetamol pack sizes has reduced the number of deaths through overdose. Now, The Royal Pharmaceutical Society has called for legislation to stop retailers offering multi-buy deals on paracetamol.
Currently retailers only have to abide by voluntary guidelines not to sell large quantities of paracetamol. Whilst most retailers comply with these voluntary agreements, others have not.
In a statement the RPS said that, when Poundland starting selling paracetamol as a multi-buy deal in 2012, it contravened the voluntary guidelines. The RPS also pointed out that when they asked Poundland to stop selling paracetamol in this way, Poundland refused to change their approach. Today, Poundland still sell three packs of paracetamol for £1.
‘The sale of medicines brings added responsibilities to retailers because of the potential for medicines to harm people if they are not taken correctly,’ said Martin Astbury, President of the RPS.
‘The RPS believes that this responsibility for medicines safety cannot be guaranteed merely through voluntary codes of conduct. Those codes have been openly flouted. Today’s research shows that restrictions on pack sizes have a positive impact. Therefore it’s time to change the law and stop retailers like Poundland putting profits before patient safety.
‘Additionally it should be noted that, when medicines are purchased from a pharmacy, the patient or person purchasing will have access to a health professional to help them make an informed choice about their treatment.’