Updates on reclassified medicines

Overview

The following forensic classifications describe the three levels of access controls for therapeutic products in Singapore:

• Prescription-Only Medicine (POM): A therapeutic product that can only be obtained from a doctor or from a pharmacist with a valid prescription. The condition to be treated needs to be diagnosed and treated by a doctor. “POM” may have serious side effects which require a doctor's monitoring, or may only be administered in accordance with a doctor’s instruction.
• Pharmacy-Only Medicine (P)*: A therapeutic product that can be obtained from a pharmacist at a retail pharmacy without a prescription. “P” is generally indicated for the short-term treatment of a minor condition or symptoms that can be readily identified and managed by self-medication with advice from a pharmacist on proper usage, treatment duration, and any necessary precautions including potential drug interactions.
• General Sale List Medicine (GSL): A therapeutic product that can be obtained from any retailer.  “GSL” is indicated for self-limiting, common and easily recognised ailments, and is reasonably safe to be used without medical supervision. The product is generally supplied in small pack sizes appropriate for self-treatment.
  

*To ensure adequate safeguard for proper use of medicines, pharmacists are legally required to keep record when dispensing a Pharmacy-Only medicine. Members of public can facilitate this process by providing the following details when purchasing a medicine from your pharmacist:

• Name
• NRIC/FIN (click here for more info on laws requiring collection of NRIC number)
• Contact details (address/contact number/email)

For recently reclassified medicines in 2025, please click here.

Use the Infosearch to determine the updated registration status and forensic classification of specific products

 

 

 

Published: 16 May 2024

Reclassified Medicines