Friday, October 4, 2024

Nicotine vapes go prescription-free in Australia

AUSTRALIA/HEALTH

From 1 October 2024, people 18 years and older can buy vapes from participating pharmacies with a nicotine concentration of 20 mg/mL or less without a prescription, where states and territory laws allow, the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care announced today.

They must talk with the pharmacist before purchasing. This includes:

  • discussing the product and dosage
  • discussing other options to quit smoking and/or manage nicotine dependence
  • providing identification (for proof of age purposes only). 

Only one month’s supply can be purchased over the course of one month.

People under 18 years need a prescription to access vapes, where state and territory laws allow, to ensure they get appropriate medical advice and supervision.

People who need vapes with a higher concentration of nicotine than 20 mg/mL also need a prescription, regardless of their age, the Department confirmed.

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