South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

What is true regarding the packaging of OTC medications under the PPPA?

1. All must be in child-resistant containers

2. One package size may be in conventional packaging

3. None need to comply with any packaging regulations

4. All can be found in a single package

The correct answer is: One package size may be in conventional packaging

The correct response revolves around the provisions of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA), which mandates that certain medications, including many over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, be packaged in child-resistant containers to reduce the risk of accidental poisoning in children. However, there are exceptions to this rule. One key aspect of the PPPA is that certain package sizes of OTC medications may be permitted to be sold in conventional packaging, which does not require child-resistant features. This typically applies to medications that are deemed to be safe enough for adult use without the risk of accidental ingestion by children. For example, a specific size of a medication may not need to be packaged in a child-resistant container if it is determined that the risk is minimal. Moreover, the law allows for the possibility of a single package size that can be offered without child-resistant packaging while still adhering to the regulations for other sizes that must use child-resistant containers. This balance helps maintain safety while ensuring accessibility for adults.