UK Parliament
The Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is exploring legal options to address excessive sales of paracetamol, a government minister has said.
In a response to a parliamentary written question from Pippa Heylings, Liberal Democrat MP for South Cambridgeshire, published on 19 May 2026, health minister Preet Kaur Gill announced the MHRA’s work.
Heylings asked the health secretary — who is now James Murray — whether he had “made a recent assessment of the adequacy of the regulatory framework for liquid paracetamol products, including the quantity that can be purchased at one time”.
In her response, Gill said that the MHRA was aware that paracetamol can be used for impulsive or intentional overdose and that it took these issues seriously as patient safety is its priority.
Gill added that the MHRA updated voluntary best practice guidance on the general sale of medicines for pain relief, which limits the amount of solid capsules or tablets that can be bought at any one time.
“Many retailers also apply the guidance to liquid formulations, with bars at their checkout to prevent the sale of more than two packs of medicines for pain.
“However, the MHRA is exploring legislative actions to address excessive sales and reduce the potential for harm, while remaining supportive of genuine patients,” she added.
Commenting on the minister’s answer, Tase Oputu, president of the Royal College of Pharmacy, said: “We welcome the MHRA exploring further measures to reduce the risk of accidental and impulsive overdose, while ensuring appropriate access for patients who need these medicines.
“We have previously called for stronger safeguards around the sale and promotion of pain relief medicines, including action on multi-buy offers and excessive purchasing practices.
“Pharmacists and pharmacy teams also play a vital role in supporting the safe use of medicines, helping patients understand dosing, avoid unintentional ‘double dosing’ with combination products and identify when further medical advice is needed.”
Ged Flynn, chief executive of the national suicide prevention charity Papyrus, commented: “We know that restricting the access to the means of suicide has — in general terms — a very good record and helps to saves lives.”
“Pharmacists, or anyone who is concerned about a person who may be struggling with life, should ask them directly if they are having thoughts of suicide. Repeat the question if necessary: ‘Are you having thoughts of suicide?’ he added.
“Assure the person that they are not alone and that professional help and support is available.”
Practical and confidential suicide prevention help and advice is available from the Papyrus HopeLine on 0300 102 2470, via text on 88247. Also visit papyrus-uk.org for a webchat service or email pat@papyrus-uk.org.
