Codeine is contained in many medicines which you can buy over the counter, or be prescribed by your doctor for pain relief. It is an opioid drug, from the same family as morphine and heroin. While the majority of people who take the drug do so without any problems, inappropriate use of the drug can result in adverse physical and psychological effects.

For this feature, Dr. Colin O'Gara, Consultant Psychiatrist at Saint John of God Hospital's specialist addiction services, outlines the common signs and symptoms of problematic use of codeine; and also provides information on a range of treatment options available to those looking to come off the drug.
 

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