What are OTC drugs: 

Over The Counter drugs refers to a vast array of medicines available from pharmacists nationwide that are generally taken to treat mild to moderate pain, alleviate bowel problems and remedy unwanted coughs. While these drugs contain codeine and are viewed as highly addictive, they are proven very effective and acceptably safe when taken in the correct manner for the right purposes.  

However, codeine is an opiate drug, very similar in structure to morphine. Addiction to OTC drugs is mainly due to prolonged use resulting in codeine dependency, which changes into morphine in the body.  

 

How are OTC drugs taken: 

In 2009 the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland published new guidelines requiring that medications containing codeine be stored out of sight and must be sold only through the pharmacist. The pharmacist will determine whether or not to sell the drugs. Addicts are not easily dissuaded. If they are refused drugs in one chemist, they simply go to another or purchase tablets on the black market.  

Typically these drugs are consumed as tablets or in liquid form. As drug tolerance levels increase, the daily dosage intensifies, in some cases from six to 24 tablets daily. Research reveals that Solpadeine and Nurofen plus are the main OTC drugs misused in Blanchardstown with both men and women, aged 20 to 60’s reported to abuse this drug as the main problem drug.   

Over The Counter drugs are being mixed with other drugs for recreational purposes. ‘Lean’ is a drug cocktail that mixes OTC cough syrup with an unkown substance.  

Why are OTC drugs misused: 

Initially, OTC drugs may be taken in order to treat mild to moderate symptoms including pain and coughs. However, easy access to these drugs may result in prolonged use causing addiction.   

Difficulties often arise in identifying OTC drug addicts by pharmacists, as they cannot be categorised by socioeconomic grouping. OTC dependency affects people from all walks of life from the CEO to the house-husband earning it the nickname ‘respectable addiction’. Often it is a very secretive thing and some people are embarrassed and ashamed to admit their addiction while others may be in complete denial.  

Those misusing illegal drugs such as ecstasy or heroin know which OTC medicines to use to ease coming down from a drug binge. Addicts weaning themselves off other drugs have used OTC medicines to help with the side effects and often become addicted. While others deliberately disobey the user instructions in order to get high.  

Effects of OTC drug abuse: 

Generally, the opioid that is taken regularly is present along with either ibuprofen or paracetamol - both of which are also capable of producing a form of dependence when misused over an extended period of time. This dependence causes withdrawal symptoms.  

Some long term and permanent illnesses of OTC drug misuse include irritable bowel syndrome, rebound headaches, liver failure, ulcer growth, colon damage and in extreme cases a coma. Attempts to stop taking the OTC drugs may result in nausea, constipation, erratic moods, urinary retention, depression and agony.  

Treatment for OTC drug misuse:

In Dublin 15, DATMS reports that OTC drug abuse is a problem. The majority of treated users were adults, however, under 18 year olds were reported to also misuse OTC drugs.  

Visit your GP for advice and support as soon as you recognise you have a drug problem. They may refer you to a specialist treatment. It’s important to be honest and open about your drug use. Telling family and friends and getting support from them may also help with your treatment and recovery.