DOWN-SCHEDULING prescription medications could benefit consumers, the health budget, and expand the role pharmacists play in the health system, experts believe.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is currently reviewing the possibility of adding a new appendix (Appendix M)for Schedule 3 (S3) medicines, which would allow Australian pharmacists to dispense a number of commonly-prescribed molecules over-the-counter (OTC).
In an article published in The Conversation, academics from the University of Sydney's School of Pharmacy said regulations in other countries permitting pharmacists to dispense medicines like the contraceptive pill, sildenafil, trimethoprim and triptans, highlighted the benefits of down-scheduling the medicines.
"Research from New Zealand and Canada shows pharmacists can successfully manage the appropriate supply of these sorts of medicines," they said.
"Despite common fears switching medicines to be available without a prescription may result in a rapid increase in use, this is not necessarily the case," they said, noting that no increase in use was found when NZ pharmacists were allowed to supply trimethoprim without a prescription.
"This additional list of medicines available without a prescription may benefit consumers and would allow pharmacists to broaden their role within the health care system.
"Pharmacists are well-positioned to provide advice on the safe and appropriate use of medicines," the report added, while consumer support was indicated in a 2018 survey, where two-thirds of respondents agreed pharmacists should be allowed to administer more vaccinations.
The TGA's public consultation on the proposed Appendix M closes on 01 Apr.
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