Doc alert over addiction

PATIENTS who overuse pills like co-codamol can suffer withdrawal symptoms similar to serious drug users, a leading medic warns.

Dr Paul Mclaren, medical director of the Priory’s Hayes Grove Hospital in Kent, explains: “Once dependent on an opiate, whether codeine or heroin, you can get withdrawal syndrome. Symptoms include chills, cramps, nausea, vomiting, weakness, sweating, insomnia and craving. It can be very uncomfortable and distressing but if managed properly and supported by professionals, it should not cause any permanent damage.’

Dr Mclaren cited the US, where

a codeine epidemic rages, as a prime example of the perils of overuse. He adds: “We are not at that level yet and there are protective mechanisms in the NHS, such as the GP system, which should prevent us getting into a similar crisis.

“But patients should treat

codeine with the utmost respect. If you find yourself using it to feel better rather than for pain, stop. If anxious or depressed, get help.

“Codeine can cause dependence just like heroin. Just because it’s from the chemist in a nice shiny box does not mean it is not highly addictive.”