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Are complementary medicines approved by the Government for sale, just like prescription medicines? Are complementary medicines approved by the Government for sale, just like prescription medicines?
Manufacturers of complementary medicines sold in Australia have to comply with quality and safety standards for their products and have some evidence to back up their claims.
However, most complementary medicines do not have to be proven to work in the same way that prescription medicines and pharmacy medicines do before they can be sold in Australia. Compared with prescription and pharmacy medicines, complementary medicines undergo less testing in general, so less is known about their effectiveness, side effects and interactions.
For more information on the Government rules for complementary medicines sold in Australia, see the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s webpage The regulation of complementary medicines in Australia — an overview.
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Date published: 2011-01-24 00:00:00
Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the date of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health professional. Health professionals should rely on their own expertise and enquiries. Where permitted by law, NPS disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer.
References to brands should not be taken as an endorsement by NPS.
