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Opportunities and challenges: over-the-counter codeine supply from the codeine consumer's perspective.
Suzanne Nielsen1, Jacqui Cameron, Sanja Pahoki
1Eastern Health, Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. suzin@turningpoint.org.au
The International Journal of Pharmacy Practice
|February 20, 2013
Summary
Over-the-counter (OTC) codeine users found it easy to access medication, with minimal pharmacist intervention. Addressing barriers in community pharmacies is crucial for reducing codeine dependence and harm.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
- Social Pharmacy
Background:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) codeine products are accessible for pain relief but pose risks of dependence.
- Understanding user perspectives is vital for effective harm reduction strategies in community pharmacy settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the experiences of individuals dependent on OTC codeine.
- To identify challenges and opportunities for intervention within community pharmacies.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research methodology.
- Interviews conducted with 20 participants meeting DSM IV criteria for codeine dependence.
- Focus on participants' acquisition of OTC codeine and interactions with pharmacists.
Main Results:
- Participants reported easy access to OTC codeine, often encountering "standard" questioning and infrequent refusals.
- Pharmacist interventions were minimal, with appearance sometimes influencing supply.
- Barriers to effective intervention within the community pharmacy setting were identified.
Conclusions:
- Existing barriers hinder effective interventions for OTC codeine dependence.
- Targeting these barriers can reduce harm associated with OTC codeine.
- Increased pharmacist engagement in OTC codeine sales may encourage help-seeking behavior.
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