Control categories:
General sales list medication (GSL)
Pharmacy medicine (P)
Prescription only medication (POM)
As required medication (PRN)
Controlled drug (CD)
Over the counter medication (OTC)
Complementary/homoeopathic remedies
Medication examples of control categories:
General Sales List Medication (GSL)
These can be sold in general retail outlets without the supervision of a pharmacist.
Ibuprofen (low-dose, typically 200 mg tablets)
Antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine)
Pharmacy Medicine (P)
These are sold only in pharmacies but do not require a prescription. They are sold under the supervision of a pharmacist.
Chlorphenamine (Piriton)
Hydrocortisone cream (1%)
Esomeprazole (Nexium 20 mg)
Prescription Only Medication (POM)
These require a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Amoxicillin (an antibiotic)
Metformin (used for type 2 diabetes)
Simvastatin (used for high cholesterol)
As Required Medication (PRN)
These are medications that are taken as needed, rather than on a regular schedule.
Paracetamol (for pain or fever)
Nitroglycerin (for chest pain in angina)
Albuterol (inhaler for asthma attacks)
Controlled Drug (CD)
These are drugs that are strictly regulated due to their potential for abuse and addiction.
Morphine (opioid pain reliever)
Diazepam (Valium, a benzodiazepine)
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, used for ADHD)
Over the Counter Medication (OTC)
These can be purchased without a prescription and are generally safe for use without a healthcare provider's supervision.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Omeprazole (Prilosec OTC)
Complementary/Homoeopathic Remedies
These include a range of treatments that fall outside mainstream medicine.
Arnica (used for bruising and muscle soreness)
Echinacea (often used to boost the immune system)
Chamomile (commonly used for its calming effects)