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Minister stands firm on codeine up-scheduling

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt is standing strong in support of the up-scheduling of codeine products by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), despite some objections from the pharmacy lobby.

Mr Hunt also announced recently that the Government will be providing $1 million in funding to ensure health practitioners and consumers are properly informed of the changes. As of February next year, all codeine-based products will require a prescription.

The AMA has consistently backed the TGA’s decision on codeine up-scheduling. AMA President, Dr Michael Gannon, said groups seeking to circumvent the TGA's decision were putting self-interest ahead of patient welfare. He also outlined the importance of health professionals in acting in line with the ruling.

“The health community – including pharmacy – must quickly implement the changes necessary to switch to prescription-only codeine in February next year,” Dr Gannon said.

Full Media Release.

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