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About registered complementary medicines
Registered complementary medicines have an ‘AUST R’ identification number that must be displayed on the label and packaging.
Registered complementary medicines primarily contain complementary medicine ingredients (such as herbal materials or vitamins).
Unlike assessed listed or listed medicines, registered complementary medicines contain higher-risk ingredients or have indications (intended use of the medicine) about more serious conditions.
As such, registered complementary medicines are fully evaluated before being made available in the marketplace and can include a 'TGA assessed claim' on their label and advertising.
Examples of registered complementary medicines include:
- general sales medicines like some fibre supplements
- pharmacy medicines like high-dose iron supplements
- pharmacist-only medicines like high-dose vitamin D supplements.
Where to buy a registered complementary medicine
Registered complementary medicines can be bought off the shelf from supermarkets and pharmacies or after consultation with a pharmacist.
Products available on international websites are not regulated by the TGA. We advise that you do not order medicines, including dietary supplements and herbal preparations, over the Internet unless you know exactly what is in it and have checked the legal requirements for its importation and use in Australia. For more information see: Buying health products online has risks.
Supplying a registered complementary medicine on the Australian market
If you want to supply a registered complementary medicine on the Australian market, see Supply a non-prescription medicine.
How we ensure registered complementary medicines are safe
Registered complementary medicines are individually evaluated by the TGA for quality, safety and efficacy before they are supplied in the marketplace.
This means the TGA fully evaluates the medicine (including the ingredients it has used and the indications displayed on the label and other advertising) before it is available to buy on the market.
Reporting a problem with a registered complementary medicine
If you experience a problem or side effect from a registered complementary medicine, you should seek advice from a health professional and then report a problem or side effect to the TGA.
Suspicion that a product is fake, dangerous, illegal or misleading
If you think a product might be fake, illegal or the contents on its label, packaging or other advertising (e.g. website, social media or radio) is incorrect or misleading, you can report a breach to the TGA.