Reclassification of medicines from prescription only (POM) to pharmacy only (P) and therefore available over-the-counter (OTC) is increasing in number and scope, being supported by government and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB).1 However concerns have been expressed about the potential masking of underlying disease, monitoring and pharmacist consultations.2 Omeprazole, the first proton pump inhibitor to be reclassified, became available OTC in March 2004. The manufacturer produced an educational pack for pharmacists and the RSPGB also produced practice guidance.3'4 This study aimed to investigate the early views and experiences of community pharmacists regarding OTC omeprazole.
展开▼
