What requirement is specified by the Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970?

The Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA) of 1970 established specific regulations aimed at reducing the risk of poisoning among children, particularly from household substances, including drugs. One of the primary requirements set forth by this act is that over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription (legend) medications must be packaged in child-resistant containers. This requirement is crucial because child-resistant packaging significantly minimizes the likelihood of children inadvertently accessing potentially harmful substances.

The act was a response to rising incidents of child poisonings due to improper access to medications, and it mandates that packaging should be designed to be difficult for children to open while still remaining accessible to adults. This regulation not only enhances safety but also promotes public health by preventing accidental overdoses and poisonings among the young population.

In contrast, offering medications without a prescription, providing medication counseling, and prominently listing side effects are not specifically mandated by the PPPA. While these practices may be important for medication safety and providing patient education, they fall under different regulations and guidelines in pharmacy practice.