Reduced gastrointestinal‐related hospitalisation costs following rescheduling of over‐the‐counter codeine‐containing compound analgesics in Australia: results of a single hospital audit in South Australia

• DOI: 10.1111/imj.16080
• Publication Date: 2023-04-08T11:44:16Z
• Authors: Ryan Mathias; Bejamin Howes; Victoria Cock; Charles Cock
• Keywords: Over-the-counter; Health Economics

Codeine-containing compound analgesics (CCCAs) are associated with dependence and, when taken in excess, significant risks of harm. A previous audit showed costs related to admissions for gastrointestinal (GI) complications CCCA. Based on this and other evidence harm, the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration changed CCCAs prescription only 2018.We aimed identify codeine-related GI whether schedule change 2018 led a reduced clinical financial strain health care system.We conducted an at tertiary teaching hospital Adelaide between 2016 2020. Patients were grouped by 2-year time periods before (group 1) following 2) change. Costs index presentation multiplied subsequent presentations. outcomes compared groups (standard statistics; P value < 0.05 significant.) RESULTS: Three hundred forty patients 1, n = 164; group 2, 119) identified, majority these admitted due nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) only. For (NSAID-containing), same repeatedly reduction from 31 eight (P 0.005), rescheduling. The total cost CCCA was AU$ 561 691 1 261 764 2 0.001).Australian rescheduling resulted complications. savings, even single department, substantial.