A TGA-commissioned expert report will consider if current restrictions around paracetamol are strong enough to prevent self-harm. 

An independent panel has been tasked with reporting on access to the painkiller and the current level of harm, amid ongoing concerns about the high prevalence of accidental and deliberate paracetamol poisoning in children and adults. 

“This report is intended to assist the TGA in considering whether any changes to the scheduling of paracetamol, including access or purchasing controls, may be warranted,” the regulator wrote on Monday. 

The three-member panel will review the incidence of overdosing reports, ED presentations and hospital admissions, deaths and adverse health outcomes as a result of paracetamol poisoning.