Overdoses caused by strong over-the-counter painkillers dropped by a third following the introduction of restrictions on their sale a decade ago.
In 2010, restrictions were put on the sale of painkillers containing codeine, such as Nurofen Plus and Solpadeine, amid fears about the dangers of overdose and addiction.
Pharmacists were required to oversee all sales, and no more than three days’ worth of medication could be sold to any one customer. Pharmacists were also required to question customers about their need for the drug and if they had tried any less potent painkillers.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland enforced the new rules through inspections.
The restrictions appear to have significantly reduced codeine overdoses, a newly published study funded by the Health Research Board suggests.
Source: Conor Gallagher, Irish Times, 4th February 2019
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