Opportunities and challenges: over-the-counter codeine supply from the codeine consumer's perspective.

Objectives: This study aimed to gain a better understanding on perspectives of over-the-counter (OTC) codeine users and issues relating to codeine dependence in the community pharmacy setting. Examining OTC codeine users' experiences aimed to promote better understanding of OTC codeine dependence, and inform pharmacy practices.

Methods: Utilising a qualitative research methodology we conducted interviews with 20 participants who were OTC codeine users and met DSM IV criteria for codeine dependence.