CHPNZ considers TGA review of risks of intentional self-poisoning with paracetamol
Consumer Healthcare Products New Zealand (CHPNZ) and its members share the community’s deep concern about the intentional misuse of medicines examined in the report from Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) independent expert review on the risks of intentional self-poisoning with paracetamol.
When used according to the label instructions, over-the-counter paracetamol pain medicines are safe and provide effective and convenient consumer access to pain relief as it occurs.
This over-the-counter availability has proven public health value. However, as with all medicines, misuse can be harmful.
As the association representing manufacturers and distributors of non-prescription medicines, including over-the-counter pain medicines, CHPNZ remains absolutely committed to supporting the safe and responsible use of medicines, and to continue to support balanced and reasonable measures in pursuit of this aim.
The extensive review for the TGA provides a significant contribution to our understanding of this complex issue. CHPNZ is currently reviewing the report and its recommendations in detail.
We encourage those with questions or concerns about their medicines to speak with their healthcare professional.