Low-dose codeine largely ineffective, says Australia's Chief Medical Officer

12 January 2018

Codeine is no better for pain than other over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, Australia’s Chief Medical Officer has said.

Brendan Murphy was speaking ahead of codeine-containing medicines becoming prescription only in Australia from next month, making it the 27th country to take a step that he predicted would save lives.

"Numerous studies show that codeine is not the miracle drug that people think it is and there is compelling evidence of harm caused by overuse and abuse"

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