Non-prescription supply of combination analgesics containing codeine in community pharmacy: A simulated patient study.

Background: The inappropriate use of non-prescription combination analgesics containing codeine (NP-CACC) has become a significant health issue in Australia.

Objective: To investigate the current management of NP-CACC direct product requests in community pharmacies located in Victoria, Australia.

Methods: A covert simulated patient (SP) method was used to observe the responses of pharmacy staff during an NP-CACC request.