Supply of OTC stimulant laxatives: update
Supply of OTC stimulant laxatives: update
Changes to the regulations for licensing of OTC stimulant laxatives include reclassification, licensing changes and strengthened warnings that stimulant laxatives do not aid weight loss.
The rationale behind these changes is over the following specific concerns:
- Misuse of stimulant laxatives in people with eating disorders
- Overuse in the elderly population, as constipation can be
a symptom of a more serious underlying health issue in chronic sufferers - Use in children is not consistent with current clinical practice.
What changes have been made?
- GSL products will be licensed only for use in adults aged 18 years and over
- P medicines will be licensed for use in adults and children 12 years old and over
- SPC warnings will be changed and warnings that stimulant laxatives do not aid weight loss will be strengthened
- GSL pack sizes will be restricted:
- 20Packs of 20 for senna/bisacodyl base tablets
- 10Pack of 10 tablets for max strength senna
- 100ml100ml bottles of senna syrup
Responding to customer queries
Click through the cards below to see the questions customers might ask you, and how to respond.
QHave they been moved behind the counter because they are stronger?
ANo, they are the same strength as before, but the pharmacy team can advise you on product use.
QWhat is the maximum pack size I can buy?
AYou can self-select pack sizes up to 20 of senna/bisacodyl base tablets, or 10 maximum strength tablets. Larger pack sizes can still be purchased from the pharmacy counter.