New restrictions introduced on sales of stimulant laxatives to counter risks from overuse and reduce abuse of the products
Written by admin on Friday 21st August 2020
Pharmacies will now be the only retailer with the power to supply OTC stimulant laxatives to patients aged 12 and over, while shops and supermarkets must not sell the products to anyone under the age of 18
Following advice from the Commission on Human Medicines (CHM), the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has put in place a package of risk minimisation measures for over-the-counter (OTC) stimulant laxatives to support the correct use and minimise risk of misuse.
The MHRA has taken action to reduce abuse and overuse of these products, and new packs will begin to appear in stores over the summer. Further information on the changes, including advice for health care professionals is available in the following MHRA Drug Safety update:
- MHRA Drug Safety Update - Stimulant laxatives (Bisacodyl, Senna & sennasides and Sodium Picosulfate)
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has produced a guide to help pharmacy teams dealing with OTC stimulant laxatives in community pharmacy, which can be accessed on the following website page:
Further information is available in the following 'The Pharmacist' news article:
