New restrictions introduced on sales of stimulant laxatives to counter risks from overuse

Following advice from the Commission on Human Medicines (CHM), the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has put in place a package of risk minimisation measures for OTC stimulant laxatives to support the correct use and minimise risk of misuse.

The MHRA has taken action to reduce abuse and overuse of these products, and new packs will begin to appear in stores over the summer. Further information on the changes, including advice for health care professionals is available in this MHRA Drug Safety Update.

The RPS has produced a guide to help pharmacy teams Dealing with over-the-counter stimulant laxatives in community pharmacy, and this can be accessed here.