LOCAL pharmacies emptied their store shelves of all codeine containing medicines as changes to the availability of codeine products came into effect yesterday.
All medicines containing codeine have been up-scheduled to prescription only, meaning people who use medicines containing less than 30mg of codeine per unit will now need to discuss alternative options with their pharmacist or GP.
“We had to clear all medicines containing codeine from the shelves before today,” UFS Chemist manager and pharmacist Barbara Beal told The Border Watch yesterday.
“At this stage we are not sure if the companies who made the codeine containing medicines will change their formulas or discontinue the products.
“The best alternatives for someone suffering cold or flu symptoms are paracetamol or a paracetamol ibuprofen combination, however we recommend people speak to a pharmacist or their GP about alternative pain medication.”
Rural Doctors Association (RDAA) president Doctor Adam Coltzau said the change would result in positive outcomes for patients.
“Many people are unaware that low dose codeine is actually largely ineffective treating many conditions causing pain,” Dr Coltzau said.
“Re-assessing pain management strategies should result in improved health outcomes for those struggling with chronic pain.
“Regular users of low-dose codeine products available over-the-counter should consult with their pharmacist, nurse or doctor regarding other options that may be more effective, as well as safer.”
Dr Coltzau said for ongoing pain a combination of strategies to suit the condition would achieve the best outcome.
“Medication alone is not effective and multidisciplinary pain management will address all of the factors associated with pain, including mental health, social relationships and work,” he said.
“Also, importantly, there are many patients out there who are suffering pain and have not consulted their health practitioner about it.
“If the codeine upscheduling prompts these people to visit their doctor or review their medication with their pharmacist, it will allow assessment and better treatment and management of their underlying condition.”
