Codeine abuse surge in SA spurs new regulatory measures

John Perlman interviews Jesse Copelyn, Freelance Journalist.

Listen below.

Rehabilitation centers in South Africa have seen a growing number of Codeine users in recent years.

Copelyn notes that among young people, there is a growing trend of mixing Codeine-based cough syrups with soft drinks to use as a party drug.

"It's often kids who view it, essentially, as many people view alcohol."

- Jesse Copelyn, Freelance Journalist

Copelyn also highlights a troubling trend of individuals who were initially prescribed codeine-based painkillers and have gradually developed an addiction.

In response, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has issued a draft guideline aimed at monitoring suspicious codeine sales.

Under the new draft guidelines, SAHPRA can request sales data and other relevant information from manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors of scheduled medicines.

This measure aims to track the flow of codeine from its production to its final dispensation, enhancing oversight and control over its distribution.

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