As of July 1, 2024, new regulations have changed how vapes can be obtained:
- Vapes are now only available in pharmacies
- A prescription is required for all vapes until September 30, 2024
- From October 1, 2024, some vapes may be available without a prescription for adults 18+
- Pharmacies can only supply vapes that are on the List of notified vapes provided by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) which can be found on the TGA website: https://www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/vaping-hub/table/list-notified-vapes
This list includes vaping substances, accessories, and devices that sponsors have declared comply with applicable standards for supply in Australia for smoking cessation or managing nicotine dependence. It's important to note that while these vapes are listed, they have not been assessed by the TGA for quality, safety, efficacy, or performance.
The list is regularly updated, with the most recent update on July 1, 2024. It represents a complete list of vapes that can be legally supplied in Australia on or after July 1, 2024.
Dispensing Vapes
- Only vapes included in the TGA's list of notified vapes can be dispensed, even if a person has a prescription for a product not included in the list.
- All vapes, including vape substances, accessories, and devices, are regulated as therapeutic goods, regardless of nicotine content.
- Vapes can only be lawfully sold by businesses licensed to sell prescription medicines.
- Currently, patients can only purchase therapeutic vapes from a pharmacy with a prescription from an Australian registered medical practitioner or nurse practitioner.
Dispensing Prescription Vapes
The main pathways for Australian pharmacies to dispense unapproved nicotine vapes are:
- Authorised Prescriber (AP) scheme
- Special Access Scheme B (SAS B)
- Special Access Scheme C (SAS C)
Pharmacists are required to validate prescriptions prior to dispensing vapes. This can be done by:
- Contacting the prescriber
- Using the TGA's online validation tool
Prescribers using the online system will generate a reference number for AP approvals, SAS B approvals, or SAS C notifications. This number should be provided to pharmacists with the patient's prescription or directly by the prescriber.
Pharmacists can use the SAS/AP submission validation search to verify that supply has been made in accordance with the applicable pathway. This validation tool provides real-time information about SAS or AP prescriptions.
Obtaining Vapes
- Until September 30, 2024: You need a prescription from a doctor or nurse practitioner
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From October 1, 2024:
- Adults 18+ may be able to purchase certain vapes without a prescription
- Our pharmacists will assess if it's appropriate for you
Important Information
- Vapes are only for smoking cessation or managing nicotine dependence
- We can only supply vapes that are on the TGA's List of notified vapes
- Our pharmacists will provide advice on:
- Alternative cessation supports
- Proper usage and dosage
- Potential interactions with other medicines
Safety and Health
- Vapes can be dangerous if misused
- Keep out of reach of children
- If accidental exposure occurs, seek immediate medical attention or call the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26)
Quitting Support
We offer various methods to help you quit smoking or vaping:
- Consult with our pharmacists for personalized advice
- Consider calling Quitline at 13 7848 for additional support
- Visit quit.org.au for more resources
Remember, our pharmacists are here to help you make informed decisions about your health. Don't hesitate to ask us any questions about vaping or smoking cessation, including information about the List of notified vapes, prescription requirements, and how these regulations affect your options.