RPS releases guidance for OTC supply of antimalarials

Pharmacists supplying antimalarial prophylaxis over the counter can now refer to a new quick reference guide produced by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS).

“Supply of antimalarials as pharmacy medicines”, available on the RPS website, offers support to pharmacists supplying Maloff Protect —  recently reclassified from prescription-only medicine (POM) to Pharmacy (P) status — as well as other over-the-counter medicines for the prevention of malarial infection. The guide includes a decision matrix for when to supply a P antimalarial.

The guide focuses on preventive medicines only and does not cover treatment options for patients infected with malaria. However, it includes information about the symptoms of malaria, and action that should be taken if infection is suspected.