
THE GOVERNMENT said it is rationing purchases of paracetamol and other over-the-counter medicines as a result of increased demand during the latest surge in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.
Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 22-01 series of 2022 was issued by Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III and Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez on Jan. 10 which covers Paracetamol, Phenylephrine hydrochloride, Carbocisteine, and Chlorphenamine Maleate Paracetamol.
The JMC cited “unusual demand” and the need to deter possible hoarding, which has left many drug retailers to run out of such items.
“The objective of this JMC is to prevent artificial shortages and price escalation of over-the-counter (OTC) flu medicines, and strictly ensure the availability of the same until such time that their supplies become stable,” the JMC said.
“This JMC shall be effective immediately upon singing hereof and shall continue to be effective until (the Department of Health) declares the supply (to be stable), the declaration of which shall automatically revoke this JMC,” it added.
Under the JMC, the limit on Paracetamol 500 milligram (mg) tablet purchases is 20 units per individual and 60 per household. Paracetamol 120 mg/5 milliliter (ml), 60 ml suspension was capped at five units per individual and 10 per household; and Paracetamol 250 mg/5 ml, 60 ml five per individual and 10 per household.
The cap for Carbocisteine 500 mg capsule was 20 per individual and 60 per household, Carbocisteine 500 mg/5 ml, 60 ml suspension five pieces per individual and 10 per household, and Carbocisteine 200 mg/5 ml, 60 ml five pieces per individual and 10 per household.
The purchase limit for Phenylephrine hydrochloride and Chlorphenamine Maleate Paracetamol 2.5 mg/500 microgram/125 mg per 5ml, 60 ml suspension was set at five per individual and 10 per household. For the 10 mg/2mg/ 500 mg tablet, the limit is 20 per individual and 60 per household.
“Retailers are hereby directed to post notices in conspicuous places within their outlets, advising consumers of the quantity of medicines they are allowed to purchase,” the JMC said.
“Unless otherwise allowed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under existing rules and regulations, all establishments and the public are reminded that online selling of medicines is not permitted,” it added. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave