With effect from 30-Sep-2009, oral solid preparations containing not more than 20mg of omeprazole can be supplied as P medicine by registered pharmacists in Singapore without the need for a prescription from a physician.

In Singapore, omeprazole has been approved for sales as POM since 1988 and they are  licensed for the relief of heartburn symptoms associated with acid reflux.

The official forensic classification of the product remains as POM; but the oral solid preparations can be dispensed as P medicines without a doctor’s prescription in the pharmacy by a registered pharmacist if the following regulatory conditions are observed:

• Indication: for the relief of heartburn symptoms associated with acid reflux
• The dosing regimen: The initial starting dose is 20mg daily. When symptoms improve the dose can then be reduced to 10mg daily, returning to 20mg daily if symptoms return.
• The lowest effective daily dose should always be used.
• Maximum dose: 20mg daily
• Maximum supply: 14 days
• Minimum age:18 years

As part of Good Pharmacy Practice, recording of patients’ particulars and supply record will be required. PSS has been involved with the drafting of the patient information leaflet which has been disseminated to all the pharmacy managers.

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