Understanding Practitioner-Only Medicines

Find out what you can (and can’t) dispense as an IICT member.

If you’re a complementary therapist or student in the natural health space, you’ve probably come across the term Practitioner Dispensing Only (PDO). But what exactly does it mean and how does it apply to your practice?

At IICT, we’re here to help you understand these guidelines with ease, so you can stay aligned with industry standards and focus on delivering safe, high-quality care to your clients.

As your professional membership body, ensuring you work within your scope of practice is a top priority. It protects both you and your clients and forms the foundation of ethical and trusted care. By staying aligned with best practices, you build a reputable business and help elevate the entire natural therapy industry.

Can I dispense remedies as a student?

Yes, with some important conditions:

• You must be supervised by a qualified practitioner, or
• You are dispensing as part of a clinical training program that is included in your course.

This ensures that all student practitioners are working within a safe, supported learning environment and are not operating beyond their scope.

What does “practitioner dispensing only” mean?

When you apply for IICT Membership, you’ll see a tick box regarding Practitioner Dispensing Only (PDO) products. This includes certain:

• Supplements
• Herbal medicines
• Therapeutic goods

These items are restricted and can only be prescribed and dispensed by qualified, registered health professionals such as:

• Naturopaths
• Nutritionists
• Medical doctors

Your eligibility will depend on your training, your scope of practice and your country’s regulations. If you are not appropriately qualified or registered in the modality that permits the use of PDO items, these must not be prescribed.

What about homeopathic remedies?

Not all homeopathics are considered practitioner-only. It depends on:

• The formulation and potency of the remedy
• Your location and local regulations

If your training includes the use of non-PDO homeopathic remedies, you may be able to use and discuss them provided it falls within your scope of training and practice.

What you can and can’t dispense

✔ You can use non-restricted remedies and products aligned with your training
✔ Students can dispense when supervised or as part of training
✘ You can’t dispense PDO items unless you're a qualified practitioner in a modality that permits it
✘ Don’t step outside your legal scope – it’s not worth the risk

More questions?

We have a helpful FAQ page here with more guidance on this topic. If you’re still unsure, contact our friendly Member Services Team or call us directly on (02) 5629 7777. We’re always here to help.

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Article written by: Kate Duncan, IICT

About the Author:

Kate is the Content Writer of IICT and has been a prominent voice in the wellness industry for over a decade. Kate’s experience as the editor of two Australian health and wellness magazines offers a wealth of insights into the natural health space, which she now shares with IICT. Kate has extensively studied Yoga, Ayurveda and Massage Therapy. When she’s not working, you’ll find Kate treasuring moments with her son, surfing one of Byron Bay’s beautiful breaks or spending time in nature with her family.