Description

Draft: Understanding Prescription-Only Opioid Pain Medicines in Australia (Educational)

Intro
Opioid pain medicines—such as certain hydrocodone-containing combinations—are prescription-only in Australia. This page explains what they are, who may be eligible, major risks and side effects, and the importance of working with a registered health professional. For clinical questions, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

What they are
Hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic sometimes combined with acetaminophen (paracetamol). In Australia, these medicines are regulated and only supplied with a valid prescription when clinically appropriate.

Who may be considered
Doctors may prescribe an opioid short-term for specific, severe pain when other treatments are not appropriate or effective. Long-term use is uncommon and closely monitored.

Major risks and side effects
– Dependence, tolerance, withdrawal
– Drowsiness, dizziness, impaired coordination
– Constipation, nausea
– Respiratory depression in overdose
– Liver injury risk increases if total daily paracetamol limits are exceeded

Safe use and monitoring
– Use exactly as prescribed; never share your medicine
– Discuss all other medicines and alcohol use with your clinician
– Store securely and return unused tablets for safe disposal
– Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, severe drowsiness, or suspected overdose

Legal and regulatory notes
– Prescription-only medicines cannot be advertised or sold to the general public
– Supply requires a valid prescription from a registered Australian prescriber
– Pharmacies follow strict identification, record-keeping, and quantity controls

Getting help
If you have questions about pain management, book an appointment with your GP or speak with your local pharmacist. If you or someone else may be experiencing a medicine-related emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.