The ANSM, the French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines, has just implemented a strong and necessary measure for public health in France. From now on, the presentation of a prescription will be mandatory in pharmacies to obtain eight anti-cold treatments containing pseudoephedrine. This decision, taken due to the numerous contraindications and adverse effects of these drugs, aims to better regulate their use and reduce the risks for patients.
The drugs affected by this measure are widely used treatments for colds, such as Actifed Rhume, Dolirhume, Humex Rhume, Nurofen Rhume, Rhinadvil Rhume, among others. All of these drugs contain pseudoephedrine, a potentially dangerous molecule that can cause serious side effects such as strokes and heart attacks.
This decision by the ANSM comes after years of criticism regarding the over-the-counter sale of these drugs and the risks they pose to users’ health. Indeed, despite the risk reduction measures put in place, such as the ban on advertising to the general public and raising awareness of the dangers of oral vasoconstrictors, health authorities believe that maintaining these over-the-counter treatments is detrimental to patients.
It is important to emphasize that serious side effects related to these drugs remain rare, but their very existence justifies stricter regulation of their dispensing. The French authorities, supported by several learned societies, have therefore decided that it is more prudent to require a medical prescription to obtain these treatments.
This decision could provoke mixed reactions, particularly among pharmacists who may fear a reduction in the range of drugs to offer to their customers. However, this is a public health protection measure that takes precedence over any other consideration.
In conclusion, this new regulation marks a significant step forward in the management of anti-cold drugs containing pseudoephedrine in France. By protecting patients from the risks associated with these treatments, health authorities are demonstrating their commitment to the safety and health of the population.