Codeine: the risks

WHAT IS CODEINE

- Codeine, like heroin, is an opioid

- Derived from the opium poppy and can be addictive

- Used in some cough suppressants, and pain relief medications in combination with ibuprofen and paracetamol

MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS:

- Drowsiness, dizziness, lowered concentration

- Euphoria, restlessness

- Blurred vision, limbs feeling heavy, muscles stiff

- Sweating, mild allergic rash, itching and hives

- Decreased heart rate, palpitations

- Stomach ache, nausea, vomiting and constipation, difficulty urinating

- Effects of taking codeine with other drugs often unpredictable

RISKS FROM LONG-TERM USE:

- Addiction

- Constipation

- Reduced sex drive

- Irregular periods

- Tension and muscle twitches

CODEINE ADDICTION:

- In 2013, 1038 Australians were being treated for codeine addiction

- The TGA says the figure is almost certainly higher due to missing data

- Another recent study of 902 people who inject illicit drugs found a third had misused over-the-counter codeine in the preceding six months

SOURCE: Australian Drug Foundation/Therapeutic Goods Administration