Schedule 0 and Schedule 1 medicine in South Africa
What Schedule 0 and Schedule 1 mean in South Africa, where these medicines can be bought, and why they still need careful use.
The two lowest control levels
Schedule 0 medicines are general-sale products that ordinary retailers, including supermarkets, may sell. Schedule 1 medicines are pharmacy medicines: they do not normally need a prescription, but they are supplied through a pharmacy. Both are the least controlled levels, which is a statement about supply – not proof that the product is safe for everyone.
Why a product moves between schedules
An ingredient can be Schedule 0 in a small pack or low strength and a higher schedule in a larger pack, a higher strength or another form. This lets a medicine be convenient for a short problem while limiting how much can be accumulated without professional contact.
Paracetamol is one example whose schedule can change with the product and pack:
Paracetamol — Panado, Painamol, Tylenol, Pacimol
Mild to moderate pain; fever
Using low-schedule medicine safely
- Check the active ingredient so you do not take it twice in two different products.
- Follow the dose and maximum daily amount on the label.
- Ask a pharmacist before use in pregnancy, for a child, or alongside chronic medicines.
- See a clinic if symptoms last longer than the label suggests.
General sale does not mean harmless
Common questions
- What is Schedule 0 medication?
- Schedule 0 is general sale in South Africa. These products may be sold by ordinary retailers, including supermarkets, under the conditions of their listing.
- Does Schedule 1 need a prescription?
- Schedule 1 medicines do not normally need a prescription, but they are pharmacy medicines supplied through a pharmacy.
Sources
- Medicines and Related Substances Act 101 of 1965, and SAHPRA scheduling guidanceSouth African Health Products Regulatory Authority
- Medicines Online Directory and approved patient information leafletsSouth African Health Products Regulatory Authority
- Poisons Information Helpline guidanceTygerberg and Red Cross Poisons Information Centres
Sources last checked 6 October 2026.