Major change to Panadol hits shelves early following Therapeutic Goods Administration decision

Major changes to Panadol are set to hit shelves ahead of a decision by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to change the packaging of paracetamol-containing products.

The TGA last year announced a suite of changes to paracetamol packaging, declaring that the maximum size of packs available for general sale will go down from 20 capsules to 16.

The change will come into effect from February 2025 at places like supermarkets and convenience stores.

However, the size of packs available for sale at pharmacies without the supervision of a pharmacist will also drop by half from 100 tablets or capsules to 50.

Packs with up to 100 tablets or capsules will only be available under the supervision of a pharmacist, while capsules and tablets will only be available in blister packaging.

The decision took into account an independent expert report commissioned by the TGA that found the rates of intentional self-poisoning with paracetamol has increased in the last decade, particularly among adolescents and young adults.

It also found paracetamol is the most commonly used medicine in the overdoses of young Australians, with the figure sitting steady at 50 per cent.

‘To further minimise the harm from paracetamol overdose, the TGA is encouraging retailers such as supermarkets to restrict sales to a single pack at a time,’ the TGA’s announcement stated.

At pharmacies without the supervision of a pharmacist, the pack size will drop from 100 tablets or capsules to 50

‘The TGA is also encouraging consumers not to stockpile paracetamol in their home and to appropriately store paracetamol and other medicines.

‘To allow manufacturers and retail outlets sufficient time to adjust, the decision takes effect from 1 February 2025.’

Following the decision, Panadol has begun implementing the changes earlier than the February 2025 deadline.

Haleon (the makers of Panadol) head of pain Elena Pintado said there are no changes to the ‘suitability profile and efficacy of paracetamol for pain relief when used as directed’ following the changes. 

Painaustralia Ambassador Sophie Scott (pictured) said paracetamol remains ‘effective’ when used as directed

‘Our focus is always on the health of Australians and facilitating responsible self-care. As the makers of Panadol, Australia’s number one trusted pain relief brand, we take our responsibility very seriously to ensure Australians can continue to access Panadol without disruption as these changes come into effect,’ Ms Pintado said. 

Painaustralia Ambassador Sophie Scott said paracetamol remains ‘effective’ when used as directed.

‘Everyday pain affects a large number of Australians and paracetamol is widely used to manage it. Paracetamol is effective for everyday pain relief when used as directed,’ Ms Scott said.

‘It is important that we follow the instructions on the pack and consult a healthcare professional if our pain persists.’