Warning over Codeine-based painkillers

People should be wary of the dangers of overusing the opium-based drug codeine found in many painkillers, pharmacists’ warned today.

The Irish Pharmaceutical Union (IPU) recommended people seek advice in their pharmacy before taking pain relievers.

“These medicines, which are available directly from your pharmacist, are very effective in relieving the symptoms of headaches and other forms of pain. Irish pharmacists often recommend these medicines to treat pain,” Darragh O’Loughlin, a Galway pharmacist, said.

“However, prolonged regular use, except under medical supervision, may lead to physical and psychological dependence, addiction and result in withdrawal symptoms, such as restlessness and irritability once the patient stops tking the medication. Pharmacists always recommend consulting your doctor if symptoms have not eased with a couple of days’ treatment using over-the-counter medicines.”

The union, which represents 1,600 pharmacists, said some easily available painkillers such as Solpadeine and Nurofen Plus contain codeine.

“Patients who use pain relievers regularly over a prolonged period of time may experience rebound headaches. Pain relievers offer quick relief for occasional headaches. But there’s a limit – taking pain medication more than two or three days a week may actually contribute to headaches rather than easing them. It’s a cycle known as rebound headaches,” he said.

“Many types of pain relievers can contribute to rebound headaches, if you exceed the recommended daily dose.”

Mr O’Loughlin said rebound headaches were more commonly experienced by patients taking a medicine containing a combination of ingredients such as codeine, caffeine and paracetamol.

“Excessive use of some types of pain medication also may cause stomach ulcers, liver damage and kidney problems. Patients with symptoms persisting for more than three days should contact their pharmacist or doctor for best advice on a course of treatment,” he said.