Pharmacists’ codeine fears overstated, GP says While pharmacists have raised concerns about a shortage of low-dose codeine, Dr Evan Ackermann, a GP with a special interest in drugs of dependence, says the evidence supports up-scheduling.
Discussing the effects of codeine up-scheduling in general practice Dr Evan Ackermann, GP and key author of the RACGP’s ‘Prescribing drugs of dependence in general practice: Part C’, talks with newsGP about his initial experiences following the up-scheduling of codeine.
RACGP codeine resources now available The RACGP has created a range of clinical and professional resources – including an online information repository, prescribing guidelines and a 12-point opioid challenge – designed to help GPs throughout Australia address issues relating to the up-scheduling of over-the-counter codeine products.
Patients stock up on codeine prior to up-scheduling Anecdotal evidence suggests some patients are building up their supplies of codeine ahead of its planned up-scheduling from 1 February.
New RACGP codeine resource now available The RACGP has created a new online repository to assist GPs in addressing issues relating to the 1 February up-scheduling of codeine.
Examining the role of prescription opioids for chronic non-cancer pain With codeine up-scheduling coming from 1 February, many in the medical profession are debating the question of whether opioids should ever be used in the management of chronic non-cancer pain.
Australian Chief Medical Officer confirms strong basis for codeine up-scheduling Codeine is no better for pain relief than other over-the-counter medications, Australia’s Chief Medical Officer Professor Brendan Murphy said.