In a move that has sparked debate among health professionals, the Argentine government has expanded the list of over-the-counter medications, removing the 40% discount previously offered to individuals with social and prepaid health plans.This change, announced on Friday and published in the Official Gazette, specifically targets mucolytics containing acetylcysteine, commonly used to treat respiratory conditions.
The decision, outlined in Provision 10823/2024 by the National Governance of Drugs, Food and Medical Technology (ANMAT), reclassifies these medications as freely available for adults and individuals over 14 years old. “These drugs are intended to reduce the viscosity of mucous secretions, helping to eliminate them in catarrhal and flu processes,” according to ANMAT. However, the agency emphasizes that prescriptions will still be required for children under 14.
Popular brands like Acemuk, Qura Muk, Toflux, and Tempotane, among others, will now be sold over the counter, with prices ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 Argentine pesos. This means individuals will have to bear the full cost, losing the previous discount benefit.
Expansion of over-the-Counter Access: A Series of Changes
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This latest move follows a series of adjustments to Argentina’s over-the-counter medication policy. In March, the government directed ANMAT to review the list, leading to the removal of prescription requirements for “prazoles,” medications used for stomach protection, in may.
Further expansions occurred in August, with medications for herpes, anti-allergy creams, corticosteroids, pain relievers, antifungals, laxatives, and nutritional supplements becoming freely available.
Deregulation and Concerns Over Self-Medication
In November, the government took another step towards deregulation, allowing over-the-counter medications to be displayed on pharmacy shelves, enabling customers to access them directly without pharmacist intervention. This measure has been met with criticism from pharmaceutical associations and health professionals who express concerns about the potential for increased self-medication.
“This means going back to a model where people self-medicate without proper guidance,” stated Rubén Fair, director of the Argentine Center of Pharmaceutical Professionals (Ceprofar).
The ongoing debate highlights the complex balance between expanding access to medications and ensuring responsible use and patient safety.
Argentina is grappling with a surge in medication prices,especially impacting essential drugs used by senior citizens. This price hike follows a controversial policy shift that removed price controls on over-the-counter medications, a move reminiscent of a similar deregulation in 1991.
Economist and former Argentine government official, “recalled that in 1991, the deregulation order of the then Minister of the Economy, domingo Cavallo, he did the same with ‘commercial intent only.'”
“The sale of over-the-counter medicines has been approved in supermarkets, kiosks, warehouses, service stations, etc. He was active for 18 years. In 2009, a law was passed almost unanimously to return medicines to pharmacies, so that medicines were not on the shelves in pharmacies because they were said to be This encouraged self-medication, stolen medicines were found in these places other than pharmacies, defective batches could not be returned,” he recalled in a conversation with AM 750.
Adding to the financial strain on Argentinians,a recent report by the Center for Political Economy (CEPA),conducted in collaboration with the Center for Political Studies of the Elderly (CEPPEMA) and the Gerontology Society of the Latin American Community (ALGEC),revealed a staggering 202 percent cumulative increase in the prices of commonly used medications by older adults since the start of Javier Milei’s presidency.
A Return to Deregulation?
The current situation echoes the 1991 deregulation, raising concerns about the potential consequences of making medications readily available outside of pharmacies. While the intention may have been to increase accessibility, critics argue that it led to a rise in self-medication, counterfeit drugs, and difficulties in tracking defective batches.
The sharp increase in medication prices, particularly for seniors who often rely on a fixed income, has sparked outrage and calls for government intervention to ensure affordable access to essential healthcare.
## More Medicines Go OTC in Argentina: Experts Weigh In
**World-Today-News:**
Argentina continues to expand its list of over-the-counter medications, a move aimed at increasing access and affordability. This week, the government announced that mucolytics containing acetylcysteine, used to treat respiratory conditions, would join the ranks of readily available drugs. Though, this decision has sparked debate among health professionals concerned about potential risks of self-medication.
To better understand this evolving landscape,we spoke wiht Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a pharmacist and researcher at the University of Buenos Aires.
**WTN:** Dr. Rodriguez,the Argentine government has expanded access to several medications over the past year. What are yoru thoughts on these changes?
**dr. Rodriguez:** There are both potential benefits and risks to consider.For many Argentinians,access to affordable healthcare remains a challenge. Making common medications readily available can improve access to treatment for minor ailments and potentially reduce pressure on the healthcare system.
However, my primary concern is the potential for self-medication. Medications, even those deemed relatively safe, can interact with other drugs or underlying health conditions.
Without proper guidance from a healthcare professional, individuals may misuse or overuse these medications, leading to complications.
**WTN:** The recent decision to make mucolytics freely available has drawn particular attention. Can you elaborate on the specific concerns surrounding this medication class?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Acetylcysteine is generally safe when used correctly. However, it’s crucial to understand its proper dosage and potential interactions. For example, it can interact with certain antibiotics and may be contraindicated in peopel with specific medical conditions.
Making these medications available over the counter without requiring a pharmacist’s consultation raises concerns about potential misuse, especially among individuals who may not fully understand the medication’s risks and benefits.
**WTN:** What are some potential solutions to mitigate the risks of self-medication while still ensuring access to essential medications?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** I believe a balanced approach is crucial. while making medications more accessible can be beneficial, maintaining some level of professional oversight is essential.
One solution could be to implement a tiered system. Some medications could be readily available,while others require a brief consultation with a pharmacist.
Investing in public health campaigns to promote responsible medication use and educate the public about potential risks is also vital.
**WTN:** We original article highlights the removal of the 40% discount previously offered to individuals with social and prepaid health plans. What are the implications of this decision for affordability?
**Dr. Rodriguez:**
This change undoubtedly raises concerns about affordability, particularly for individuals who rely on those discounted medications. While making medications more accessible is crucial, it shouldn’t come at the expense of affordability for vulnerable populations. The government needs to explore
choice strategies to ensure that essential medications remain accessible and affordable for all Argentinians.
**WTN:** Thank you,Dr. Rodriguez, for sharing your valuable insights on this complex issue.
