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Cost concerns over relabelling of cough and cold meds
11 June 2010
Makers of the cough and cold medicines say they are keen to work with Medsafe to ensure relabelling of such medicines does not create additional costs for consumers or suppliers.
A media statement issued today follows the Ministry of Health decision earlier this week to restrict cough and cold medicines containing dextromethorphan, ipecacuanha or phenylephrine and meant for under 12-year-olds to Pharmacy Only.
Such medicines can still be sold in supermarkets provided they are relabelled for use in adults and children over 12 years old.
Heiko Petersen, president of the New Zealand Self-Medication Industry Association that represents the makers of non-prescription consumer healthcare products, says the regulatory tightening is disappointing.
“As we submitted to Medsafe, we believe that this tightening is unnecessary due to the great safety record of these products and clear label instructions. It will reduce access for consumers to these products and drive up cost for suppliers and consumers.”
Mr Petersen says it’s not yet clear exactly what packaging changes will be necessary.
“We want information to be clear for consumers but we want to avoid pack changes that will incur additional costs for both suppliers and consumers.”
Medicines which contain glycerol, guaiphenesin and ingredients such as honey, lemon and other natural substances have been exempted, as is Lemsip.
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