Ban on over-the-counter painkillers takes power away from people like Monica

By Esther Han
Updated January 24 2018 - 9:53am, first published January 18 2018 - 4:52pm
Pic of codeine products currently available over the counter. After February 2018, people will need a prescription for it. 28th November 2017. Picture by Simone De Peak
Pic of codeine products currently available over the counter. After February 2018, people will need a prescription for it. 28th November 2017. Picture by Simone De Peak
The Hon Brad Hazzard, Minister for Health.  speaking at the Junior Medical Officer Wellbeing and Support Forum, Cockle Bayy.  6th June 2017 Photo by Louise Kennerley SMH
The Hon Brad Hazzard, Minister for Health. speaking at the Junior Medical Officer Wellbeing and Support Forum, Cockle Bayy. 6th June 2017 Photo by Louise Kennerley SMH

Monica Cheah, who suffers from a chronic inflammatory condition, spent years trying different combinations of painkillers before she found the "sweet spot", which involved codeine-based tablets.