New Zealand Pharmacists and Pharmacist‐Only Medicines

Background: In New Zealand pharmacist‐only medicines are available over‐the‐counter and must be sold by pharmacists. This gives pharmacists an opportunity to counsel consumers and ensure that the medicine is appropriate. Aim: To assess New Zealand community pharmacists’ views about the requirements for the sale of pharmacist‐only medicines. Method: A questionnaire was sent to all community pharmacies in New Zealand. Responses to an open‐ended question about the requirements for the sale of pharmacist‐only medicines were analysed thematically. Results: Pharmacists largely agreed that it was appropriate to counsel consumers purchasing pharmacist‐only medicines. They identified a range of barriers: consumer attitudes and expectations; advertising; other pharmacists’ practice; practicalities of retail pharmacy; gender issues; and remuneration. Conclusion: There appeared to be a high level of support among pharmacists for professional involvement in the sale of pharmacist‐only medicines. J Pharm Pract Res 2004; 34: 282–4.