HEALTH professionals in Warrnambool have received the latest information on upcoming changes to laws relating to codeine availability.
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Doctors and pharmacists from across the south-west took part in a managing codeine dependence forum at the South Warrnambool Football Netball Clubrooms on Tuesday evening.
From February 1 next year, medicines containing codeine will no longer be available without prescription in pharmacies.
Codeine is currently available in a number of formulations in pharmacies over the counter for consumers to self-administer. These include cough and cold preparations, and analgesic preparations combined with other pain relief medicines such as aspirin, paracetamol or ibuprofen.
The forum on Tuesday night was organised by the Western Victoria Primary Health Network.
Presenters were addiction medicine specialist Dr Rodger Brough and pharmacist and opioid management clinical advisor Ms Pene Wood. The forum included information on how doctors and pharmacists should respond to reduce risks and minimise hospitalisations.
CEO of Western Victoria Primary Health Network Dr Leanne Beagley said the changes may lead people to realise they have become dependent on codeine.
“For pharmacists and prescribers, it is important to be aware of the timeline for the proposed rescheduling of codeine containing products, and provide early notification to patients and have discussions regarding appropriate treatment options,” Dr Beagley said.
“The message for the individuals experiencing ongoing pain is that they should speak to their doctor or healthcare provider to determine alternative treatment options which may include other medications or non-medical therapies.
“These changes to codeine availability are in-line with international practice. The need for action is clear here in Australia where it is estimated that over-the-counter codeine products have been a factor in nearly 100 deaths per year.”
Late last month, the federal government committed $1 million to help the smooth roll-out of the changes.
This was welcomed by President of the Chapter for Addiction Medicine at the Royal Australasian College of Physicians Adrian Reynolds.
“The scheduling change will be an adjustment for patients, pharmacists and doctors, but it’s a decision that is ultimately going to save lives and improve health outcomes,” Mr Reynolds said.
Further information on codeine can be found at:
https://westvicphn.com.au/health-professionals/alcohol-and-other-drugs/codeine-changes