This does not mean that people who have been using analgesics combined with codeine need to run off and see a doctor. Most pharmacists will be able to recommend alternatives such as ibuprofen and paracetamol.
There will be people who have been using codeine-containing analgesics regularly, and some may have developed a dependency. Overuse and dependency can have several symptoms – headaches, a need to use codeine more frequently or at higher doses, or anxiety at having no stock left. Withdrawal symptoms might include an upset stomach and diarrhoea.
GPs routinely see people who request prescriptions for drugs of addiction, be it codeine-containing medicines, stronger opiates or benzodiazepines. These consultations can be difficult, especially if the GP does not feel the medication would be appropriate. I would strongly recommend that anybody wanting a codeine-containing prescription see their usual doctor. It is important that a history of pain symptoms and medication use is determined; a management plan can be developed to treat pain symptoms and address any issues of addiction if they are present.
Reference: NPS Medicine Wise.
