Codeine no longer available over the counter from Feb 1

Pain-relief medicines that contain codeine will no longer be available without a doctor's prescription from 1 Feb 2018. Here’s what you need to know.

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Codeine

Codeine is an opioid medicine used to relieve mild pain and suppress a dry cough. Find out how codeine works and about possible side effects.

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Medicines for headaches

Most people have headaches occasionally. Find out what can cause them, medicines, and how you can treat different types of headaches.

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Prescription addiction can happen to anyone

Prescription medicines are responsible for more than 2 in 3 accidental drug-related deaths. Here's what you need to know about prescription addiction.

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Taking opioid medicines safely

Opioid medicines are prescribed to relieve pain caused by cancer, surgery or injury. It's crucial to take them safely to reduce risks of opioid harm.

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Opioids

Opioids are a group of medicines prescribed by doctors to treat pain. Learn about side effects, withdrawal symptoms and what to do in an overdose.

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Better access to an overdose-reversing medication could save lives

A nasal spray has been added to the PBS, meaning many Australians could be saved from overdosing on prescription and illicit opioids.

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Opioid medicines and pain

Some pain medicines, such as opioids, need to be taken with care. Learn about the risks and benefits of opioids, side effects and pain-relief alternatives.

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Pain relief after surgery

Pain after an operation is a common problem but there is no need for you to be in a lot of pain. Pain relief after surgery is usually safe and effective.

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Pain-relief medicines

Pain relief medicines include over-the-counter and prescription medicines. Learn about their side effects as well as when and when not to use them.

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Managing period pain

Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) is common but might make it difficult for you to enjoy normal activities. Here are some ways to manage painful periods, and know when it’s time to see your doctor.

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Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen treats fever and pain caused by inflammation. Learn more about how it works, how to take it, and its possible side effects.

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Chronic pain

Chronic pain is pain that lasts for more than 3 months or beyond expected healing time. Learn about the causes, living with and managing chronic pain.

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How do you know if you're having a migraine or a headache?

Most Australians get headaches, while 5 million experience migraines, which can affect the entire body. Learn about the difference, and how you can prevent or treat migraines.

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Medicines for nerve pain

There are many different types of medicines used to help ease nerve pain. Find out more about what medicines to take from a trusted source.

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Options for managing chronic pain

Chronic pain affects 1 in 5 Australians aged over 45. An effective pain-management plan includes various strategies, not only medicines.

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Can medicines be addictive?

Some medicines can be addictive. You can become dependent on a medicine. Find out the difference. Learn how to avoid becoming addicted to medicines.

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Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids or piles are lumps that occur inside and around the anal passage. Here’s how to help ease symptoms and discomfort.

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Heroin

Heroin is an illegal, addictive drug with many side effects. Find out more about the dangers of long-term heroin use, addiction and rehabilitation.

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Drug abuse

Drug abuse can affect your health, relationships, job and education. Learn about Australia's drug laws, drug addiction and where to get help.

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Paracetamol

You can take paracetamol for mild to moderate pain. Find out when to take paracetamol, its side effects and what to do if you take too much.

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