Recreational use of codeine a growing trend in South Africa

702 and CapeTalk's Africa Melane speaks to Mokgadi Fafudi, Regulatory Compliance Manager at the South African Health Products Authority (SAHPRA).

Listen below:

SAHPRA is taking a firm stand against the growing misuse of codeine-containing cough syrups. Classified as an opioid, codeine can be addictive if abused.

Fafudi explains that only 100ml of the medication is allowed to be sold at a time, unless a healthcare professional motivates for more, according to a patient's needs.

Pharmacists are crucial in this process to ensure that misuse of the drug is prevented.

"The trends that we are seeing – especially with the young ones – they're accessing more than they're supposed to, and also using it for the wrong reasons... mostly you'll find it in the recreational market."

– Mokgadi Fafudi, Regulatory Compliance Manager - South African Health Products Authority

Theft and hijacking of supply vehicles contribute to the growing problem.

Fafudi says it's a global concern that's largely affecting teenagers, with social media aiding in the spread.

"It becomes a holistic effort in fighting this... from our side, we've got inspectors who are vigilant, who are conducting surveillances – and we're also working with enforcement officers to ensure that we look at the witnesses in the supply chain, we monitor consumption... to ensure that where there is high consumption, there is accountability."

– Mokgadi Fafudi, Regulatory Compliance Manager - South African Health Products Authority

"It's a complex problem that we are trying to sort out, without also punishing those who need these substances."

– Mokgadi Fafudi, Regulatory Compliance Manager - South African Health Products Authority

The public is urged to report any unregistered establishments that are selling these products - contact SAHPRA on their website.

RELATED: Codeine abuse: 'Worldwide it's a public health problem'

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