Pack size restriction of mild analgesics sold as over-the-counter drugs in pharmacies in Denmark: preliminary register findings

Mild analgesics are sold in all European countries, and some countries have observed increased contact with emergency departments due to overdose by these agents, especially paracetamol. There is significant evidence that restricting access to means is an effective suicide prevention strategy, and moreover controlling availability of analgesics has proven to be effective. The aim of the study was to investigate changes in numbers and rates of overdose before and after the pack size restriction on mild analgesics sold over-the-counter (OTC) in pharmacies in Denmark implemented in September 2013, and secondly to investigate potential substitution of self-harming agents