Classification of Medicines
Classification Process
Medicines Classification Committee
Terms of reference
Meetings
Membership
Terms of reference
The Medicines Classification Committee (MCC) is a Ministerial advisory
committee whose terms of reference are to make recommendations to the Minister
of Health regarding the classification of medicines as prescription medicines,
restricted medicines or pharmacy-only medicines. The MCC will also consider
and report to the Minister on any matter concerning the classification of
medicines and access to medicines by health professionals and the public.
Meetings
The MCC meets twice a year (usually in April and October) to discuss
classification issues and to consider changes in the classification of
medicines. Secretarial support is provided by Medsafe.
Membership
The MCC comprises two nominees from each of the New Zealand Medical
Association and the Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand and two members of
the Ministry of Health, one of whom is to be appointed as chairperson.
Nominees are appointed for a three-year term and may be re-appointed for one
further term of office. Ministry members retain their appointments "during the
pleasure of the Minister".