Aussies “panic buying” codeine ahead of over-the-counter ban
Last year, we reported that the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) had decided to place new restrictions on the sale of codeine-containing medications, making them available by prescription only in response to the growing number of Australians becoming addicted to the drug.
Now, just weeks before the February 1 deadline, there are reports of consumers flocking to pharmacies to stock up on the soon-to-be restricted drug.
According to news.com.au, people are “panic-buying” medications such as Panadeine, Nurofen Plus and Mersyndol, confirming the fears of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia who were staunchly against the over-the-counter ban, saying it will only lead to an increase in “doctor shopping”.
Dr Chris Haynes, Dean of the Faculty of Pain Medicine at the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetics, says there are effective alternatives to codeine available, but that patients should discuss options with their GP about how to best manage their pain.
“Most people will be able to manage their short-term pain with a range of other, over the counter medicines that don’t contain codeine,” he told news.com.au.
“But if you’re at all unsure seek advice on what the most appropriate medicines and pain relief are best suited for you. There are many safer and more effective alternatives available that don’t have the harmful side effects of low-dose codeine.”
Dr Hayes welcomes the ban, explaining that codeine, a weak opioid, can be highly addictive and that overdose can lead to liver damage, stomach ulcers, renal failure and, in some cases, death.
“Codeine should not be used to treat a migraine or period pain. There are significant costs to the patient, their families, public health resources and the community when patients become addicted to codeine,” he said.
“When exploring other alternative treatments it’s good to be aware that unlike codeine, paracetamol and ibuprofen are not opioids and not addictive.”