With new regulations on vaping products that came into effect in October, Australian vapers will see significant changes in how they can access and use therapeutic nicotine vapes. These updates, particularly regarding prescriptions, dosage limits, and pharmacy roles, are designed to balance accessibility with safety and compliance. Here's an overview of the main changes.
Changes in Prescription Requirements
Until 30 September 2024, anyone looking to buy nicotine-containing vapes, or access nicotine-free vapes, must first get a prescription from a doctor or nurse practitioner. But starting from 1 October 2024, therapeutic vapes with a nicotine concentration of 20 mg/mL or less will be available directly from pharmacies for individuals over 18 without needing a prescription. This change aims to make nicotine vapes more accessible while ensuring that pharmacists still play a crucial role in assessing their safe use.
Pharmacists will need to determine whether a vape is clinically appropriate before supplying it, even if it doesn't require a prescription. This ensures continued oversight and protects users by maintaining strict standards.
However, vapes with a nicotine concentration higher than 20 mg/mL, or any vapes for individuals under 18, will still require a prescription, in line with the laws of various states and territories.
How to Get a Prescription
If you need a prescription for a higher-concentration vape or are under 18, here are the pathways available for medical and nurse practitioners:
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Authorised Prescriber (AP) Scheme: This allows medical practitioners to prescribe vapes for patients aged 16 and over without needing approval for each patient. The AP status lasts for five years, with mandatory reporting every six months to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
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Special Access Scheme C (SAS C): Through this process, both doctors and nurses can provide immediate access to vapes for patients aged 16 and over. A notification must be submitted to the TGA within 28 days of supply.
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Special Access Scheme B (SAS B): This is used when other pathways are not suitable and requires approval from the TGA before the prescription can be filled.
Changes in Dosage Regulations
While the Therapeutic Goods Order 2021 (TGO 110) sets a strict nicotine concentration limit of 100 mg/mL for therapeutic vapes, only those with 20 mg/mL or less will be available without a prescription. Any product dispensed by a pharmacy must comply with these limits and be listed on the TGA’s approved list of notified vapes.
What This Means for Australian Vapers
From October, vapers in Australia will experience more streamlined access to therapeutic nicotine vapes, provided the nicotine concentration falls within the 20 mg/mL threshold. For vapers under 18, or those requiring higher nicotine content, prescriptions will still be mandatory. Pharmacies will play a key role in making sure these products meet safety standards and that vapers receive the right product for their needs.
Stay Updated
If you’re a regular vaper or someone new to vaping as a smoking cessation tool, staying informed about these changes is crucial. Make sure to speak with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider to understand how these new rules might affect your ability to purchase vaping products.
And remember, while these changes make it easier to access nicotine vapes, they still carry health risks, especially for those under 18 or non-smokers. If you’re thinking about starting vaping or switching products, consult with a healthcare professional first to ensure you’re making the right choice for your health.