A pharmacist has issued a warning over a painkiller taken by many in the UK
Millions of people take it in the UK(Image: Moussa81 via Getty Images)
A pharmacist has issued a warning to the millions of people in the UK who regularly take an over-the-counter pill. Co-codamol is a common medication here, but it is either banned or heavily regulated in several countries, including Greece and France.
In the UK, co-codamol can be purchased without a prescription in doses up to 12.8 mg, with higher doses available on a doctor’s advice. However, the drug is considered illegal in Greece unless prescribed by a doctor.
It is entirely prohibited in Ethiopia, and possession of it in the UAE or China could lead to imprisonment. In Thailand, it is classified as a category 2 narcotic, and without specific licences or forms, it is either regulated or banned in Indonesia, Qatar, Singapore, and Japan.
Even with a prescription, bringing co-codamol into Mexico is forbidden. Since 2018, Australia has required a prescription for this drug, as do France, Italy, India, Romania, Ireland, Canada, USA, and Germany. Several EU countries, including Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, France, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania, and Slovenia, allow low-dose over-the-counter codeine (up to approximately 12 mg per unit), but only under the supervision of a pharmacist.
Peter Thnoia, Superintendent Pharmacist at PillTime, said: “Know the rules of the country you’re travelling to, because you’d be surprised how many everyday tablets are banned or regulated abroad. For example, co-codamol is available over the counter and in supermarkets here in the UK.
“But in Greece, the codeine element is treated as a controlled drug, so you can only bring it into the country with a prescription and a doctor’s note. If you’re unsure on whether your medication is under restricted use in the country you’re travelling to, then check the official embassy website for your destination. It will explain exactly what you can, and can’t, bring into the country.
“It’s always best to be safe and check before you travel, so that you have all the essential medication you need to make sure your holiday is as enjoyable as possible.”
Peter also offered guidance on how to transport medications when flying, as he said: “Always keep your medication in your hand luggage, in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Security staff may need to verify it, especially if it’s liquid or regulated.
“If you’re unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a supporting letter. This can be especially helpful when travelling with larger quantities.”