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Aspirin, paracetamol and ibuprofen: soon only on prescription?

 Thursday October 3, 2019

Aspirin, paracetamol and ibuprofen could soon be compulsory on prescription and no longer self-service in pharmacies. The Medicines Agency (ANSM) is considering limiting direct access to these drugs to avoid their misuse.

 

Towards the end of self-service

The Medicines Agency is considering limit access to certain drugs which are, for the moment, over the counter in pharmacies. These are paracetamol (Doliprane, Efferalgan), ibuprofen (Nurofen, Advil) and aspirin.

These drugs are widely used by the French in self-medication to treat pain or fever. However, ANSM would like to limit the risks associated with the misuse of these drugs.

 

Dangerous overdoses

Taking these drugs is safe as long as these molecules are ingested correctly. But, in the event of abuse, the Medicines Agency explains that paracetamol can lead to serious liver damage. The first cause of liver transplant in France is also due to overdoses of drugs.

The ANSM recalls that an adult weighing more than 50 kg can only take a dose of 3 grams per 24 hours. In addition, without a prescription it is imperative not to exceed three days of treatment in case of fever and five days in case of pain. The Medicines Agency also wants pharmacists to advise more on the risks associated with these molecules. A message should also soon appear on the boxes of paracetamol medicines to inform about the risks linked to the liver.

 Stéphanie Haerts

Read also : Pain: the practical guide to over-the-counter medicines