Pharmacist warns over addiction to painkiller drugs

OVER-THE-COUNTER painkillers can turn unsuspecting users into drug addicts, according to a pharmacist leading an awareness campaign on the danger of such drugs

"They are not sweets and people should not treat them lightly," warned pharmacist Brendan Quinn yesterday. "Codeine-based products, in particular, can be very addictive."

Mr Quinn, who runs a pharmacy in Gort, Co Galway, wants manufacturers to put clearer safety warnings on their products.