Australian regulator considers restricting access to common painkillers

Australia's medical regulator is considering restricting access to common painkillers after a rise in overdoses.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is investigating reports of accidental and deliberate paracetamol poisoning in both adults and children.

"Paracetamol is the most widely used pain relief medicine in the world that is available without a prescription," the TGA said in a statement.

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"Access restrictions are currently in place, through the Poisons Standard, on the pack size and strengths of paracetamol that are allowed via general retail (eg by supermarkets and convenience stores), pharmacy or pharmacist-only sale.

"The TGA is aware of concerns, particularly of families and healthcare professionals of affected consumers of paracetamol, regarding the number of poisonings and deliberate overdoses from paracetamol obtained from general retail outlets, and whether current access restrictions are appropriate."

The investigation will look at the number of paracetamol poisonings across Australia and compare this to other common pain reliefs available without a prescription.

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It will also look into whether restricting access to paracetamol or creating purchasing limits would reduce the number of accidental and intentional poisonings.

A report will be prepared by July for relevant approval bodies to make a decision about changes to paracetamol availability.

"This report is intended to assist the TGA in considering whether any changes to the scheduling of paracetamol, including access or purchasing controls, may be warranted," the TGA said.