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Over-the-counter killers: The potentially lethal pills on sale at any chemist

(Daily Mail 06/03/2009)

For millions of people, of course, over-the-counter remedies are a simple and effective form of pain relief. For MP Brian Iddon, however, there need to be effective new measures to warn people of the dangers of potential addiction. While he is not completely convinced that any codeine-containing product should be made available on prescription only, he would like to see greater restrictions on marketing and availability. He acknowledges that little can be done about the threat posed by the internet.

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Addiction over the counter: 30,000 hooked on everyday painkillers, say MPs

(Daily Mail 21/01/2009)

Addiction to over-the-counter painkillers is becoming a serious health problem, MPs warned last night. They said more than 30,000 people may depend on drugs containing codeine, with middle-aged women at most risk. Some are taking more than 70 pills a day, putting themselves in danger of liver dysfunction, stomach disorders, gallstones, constipation and depression.

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