TGA consultation on Poisons Standard—including pentobarbitone

The Therapeutic Good Administration (TGA) has opened a consultation process on proposed amendments to the Poisons Standard.

Pentobarbital (pentobarbitone) is being considered for up-scheduling due to reported misuse of injectable pentobarbital.

The proposed changes would mean that when packed and labelled for injection it would change from Schedule 4 (prescription medicines only or prescription animal remedy) to Schedule 8 (controlled drug—like morphine).

A Schedule 8 poison would require greater control of access, which may mitigate reported misuse.

If you would like to contribute to the consultation it will be open from 22 September 2016 to 20 October 2016.