Big changes have come for Australian vapers, especially when it comes to how and where you can get your hands on nicotine vapes, now classified as Therapeutic. New regulations are set to kick in on 1 October 2024, so it's important to know what’s happening. These updates will impact everything from whether you need a prescription to nicotine dosage limits, and even how pharmacies will be involved in the process.
Here’s what you need to know.
Easier Access to Nicotine Vapes from October 2024
Until 30 September 2024, if you want to buy a therapeutic vape containing nicotine (or even one without), you'll need to get a prescription from a doctor or nurse practitioner. But starting from 1 October 2024, there’s some news: if you're 18 or older, you’ll be able to buy therapeutic vapes with a nicotine strength of 20 mg/mL or less directly from a pharmacy, without needing a prescription.
However, this doesn’t mean you can just walk in and grab one. Pharmacists will still need to make sure it's suitable for you, which means they’ll ask a few questions to check if vaping is n fact the best option for your situation. This added layer of care helps keep things safe and ensures that vapes are used responsibly.
What Stays the Same?
Even with these relaxed rules, not everything is changing. If you're under 18 or need a vape with a nicotine concentration higher than 20 mg/mL, you’ll still need a prescription from a doctor or nurse. This is to ensure the safety of younger vapers and those who need stronger nicotine doses. These prescriptions are guided by state and territory laws, so the rules may vary depending on where you live.
How to Get a Prescription if You Need One
There are still several ways you can get a prescription if it's needed:
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Authorised Prescriber (AP) Scheme: Doctors who are authorised can prescribe vapes for patients 16 and older without needing approval for each person. This scheme lasts for five years, but doctors must report how many patients they prescribe to every six months.
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Special Access Scheme C (SAS C): This is a quick way for doctors and nurses to prescribe vapes to people over 16. They just need to send a notification to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) within 28 days of supplying the vape.
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Special Access Scheme B (SAS B): If the above options don’t apply, this route can be used, but it requires TGA approval before the prescription is filled.
Nicotine Dosage Limits
The rules around nicotine strength are still pretty strict. According to the Therapeutic Goods Order 2021 (TGO 110), nicotine vapes can have a maximum strength of 100 mg/mL. But, from October, only those with 20 mg/mL or less will be available over the counter without a prescription. If you need something stronger, you'll need a prescription, and the product will need to be on the TGA’s notified list.
What These Changes Mean for You
Starting in October, getting therapeutic vapes will be simpler for adults 18 and over, as long as the nicotine concentration is 20 mg/mL or less. But for under-18s or those needing a higher dose, prescriptions are still required. Your local pharmacist will play a key role in helping you get the right vape while making sure it meets all safety and regulatory standards.
Stay Informed and Vape Safely
If you're a regular vaper or just thinking about trying it out, it’s important to stay updated with these changes. Speak to your local pharmacy or a healthcare provider to make sure you’re following the rules and getting the product that’s best for your needs.
Remember, while vaping is often seen as a less harmful alternative to smoking, it’s still not risk-free—especially for young people or non-smokers. So, if you’re unsure about what’s right for you, have a chat with a healthcare professional who can guide you.
Resources:
https://www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/vaping-hub/changes-regulation-vapes
https://www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/vaping-hub/vapes-information-individuals-and-patients
