Access to Pharmacist Only Medicines from Online Pharmacies in Australia

Abstract

Internet pharmacies have the potential to improve access to medicines, especially for consumers with limited access to health care services and professional advice. - The top three Australian online pharmacies were interrogated to review information presented to consumers concerning the provision of certain Schedule 3 (S3) Pharmacist Only Medicines. - The information regarding the provision of S3 medicines from online pharmacies is inconsistent and, at times, incorrect or misleading. - Inconsistent application of S3 guidance by online pharmacies has the potential to create widespread confusion about the availability of S3 medicines from pharmacies. - The provision of medicines by pharmacists should be guided by the law, Professional Practice Standards and Competency Standards, and in a patient's best interest.