Should codeine containing products be regulated? How do we curb the rampant concerns of abuse we face in our daily settings as pharmacists?
Well this short article raises a few suggestions but many more questions.
We've all seen the typical codeine suspect coming in to get yet another box of "codein" with a friendly smile and a ready-to-use excuse.
It's for family, I forgot mine at home, I travelled... etc etc.
We indulge them more often then not and advise them to only buy for themselves and not for other family members but is it enough?
It's especially worrying when they directly request (by name) specific codeine syrups and combination flu tablets without allowing the dispenser to suggest anything else or even slightly deviate from their request! There's no telling what goes in their private homes.. do they drink the whole bottle and take multiple pills at once?
We often see notes or alerts left by previous dispenser warning the next dispenser of a possible addiction or misuse; But when do we say NO and refuse to sell?
Should there be a form that they fill much like that of the morning after/ emergency contraception?
Should the law change yo limit the number of purchases of pack size and frequency per month?
Should health care professionals make a bigger effort to educate populations against the misuse of codeine and its dangers?
If we have sugar tax and other bizzar regulations surely the state can be more stringent concerning its beloved citizens' health?
If you had a say and a national impact how would you address the issue of codeine abuse and misuse.
Codeine:
You work too well for your own good.
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