These changes affect both shoppers and retailers. Here’s what you need to know.

How the paracetamol pack size changes will affect you

Some stores may also limit you to one pack per purchase.

Some states, such as Queensland and Western Australia, have extra restrictions so you might need to check in with a pharmacist for anything bigger than 16 tablets.

Why have paracetamol pack sizes changed

An expert review commissioned by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) confirmed there were increasing rates of intentional self-poisoning with paracetamol in the last decade in Australia, with the greatest proportion of cases in adolescents and young adults. Females were significantly over-represented.

The TGA said the new measures are designed to balance the need for accessible pain relief with reducing potential harm from paracetamol misuse.