Over-the-counter sale of codeine pain killers such as Nurofen Plus and Panadeine may end

By Aisha Dow, Julia Medew
Updated May 8 2015 - 5:18pm, first published April 26 2015 - 6:42am
Australia's drug regulator is considering a proposal to make 150 codeine products prescription-only medicines. Photo: Supplied
Australia's drug regulator is considering a proposal to make 150 codeine products prescription-only medicines. Photo: Supplied
Proposed changes could see a doctor's visit required for current over-the-counter painkillers.
Proposed changes could see a doctor's visit required for current over-the-counter painkillers.

Access to Nurofen Plus, Panadeine and other common painkillers sold to millions of Australians each year could soon be curtailed by health authorities amid reports of harmful side effects, addiction and fatal overuse.