23/09/2024
🚬🚬***Pharmacy Update- E-Cigarettes/Vapes***🚬🚬
Locals,
I just thought to clarify our position with respect to e-cigarettes/Vapes as we approach the October 1st scheduling change.
Pyrmont Pharmacy and TWCM Miller Street Pyrmont, will NOT be stocking v**es on October 1st
Be aware there are still two major issues that need to be overcome before we would consider it
1. There are currently no approved v**es licenced in Australia
2. There are no approved treatment guidelines for pharmacist to supply
-The only v**es available must be supplied under an access scheme designed for non-approved products whereby the prescriber (pharmacist) is taking on the liability for its issue. With respect to v**es this not only includes the liquid used in the v**e but the device itself potentially with lithium-ion batteries having the potential to explode in a pocket
-Medications given out by pharmacists need to be done so under approved treatment pathways. Currently there are none. NSW health has also indicated that they are planning on ensuring the pathways (?) are followed and going to conduct audits on pharmacies which have the potential to shut down the entire pharmacy operation. I will also raise that in draft guidelines that have been circulated, there is a need for a lengthy consultation which will also incur a fee (think doctors consult- but without any bulk billing), this will be on top of the cost of the v**e to the consumer.
Our pharmacists believe there is potentially a role for v**es within harm minimisation and we are open to changing our position in the future, however the current rushed policy and potential for harm means we are left with no alternative at the current time.
We will continue to supply v**es by prescription and are happy to direct customers who need assistance to talk to their doctor about this as a treatment option
Any questions please see either Matt or Julien in store
Matt & Julien
Owners/Pharmacists
Pyrmont Pharmacy & Terry White Miller St Pyrmont
