We have some pearls today that you may not be totally familiar with for codeine products.
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1. Pictured Counselling Cue Card: a free sample of our counselling reference
2. Patient Consultation: exactly what a pharmacist may say to a patient picking up this medication, with formatting to show where the information is coming from on the cue card
Clearly, there are nuances that may not be captured in this format. The goal here is to provide you with an example of how a pharmacist may counsel a patient. Basic counselling tactics (e.g. showing the patient the labeled medication as you read it, having the patient repeat the information in their own words, double checking allergies, and so on) may not be depicted in the interest of keeping the content concise.
RPh: Hi! Is this medication new for you?
Patient: Yes.
RPh: Ok. What has (prescriber) told you?
Patient: They said it's Codeine Contin for my severe back pain.
RPh: Ok. This medication is called CODEINE or CODEINE CONTIN, and you'll take it (as directed). It's in the family of what's called an opioid, but basically it will help lower your pain. You can take it either with or without food. Side effects may include drowsiness, constipation, and nausea; please let us or your (prescriber) know if these become bothersome. This medication may not be right for you if you are susceptible to falls, have urinary retention, or have breathing problems. Do not take alcohol or take more than prescribed, as this medication can cause a dependence or serious overdose. Because of the risk for overdose, I will also provide you with a free naloxone kit if you're ok with that; it's a good idea to have alongside opioids/narcotics even though you're unlikely to need it to use it. For example, if there are kids in the house that get into this medication, this can be life-saving. Store it at room temperature.
RPh: Did you have any questions?
Patient: Can I split this medication if I find it too much?
RPh: Yes! Even though it is long-acting, every strength except the 50 mg can be split.
Patient: Great. And how long does it last?
RPh: it generally lasts about 12 hours, but this can vary with each person.
Patient: Thanks!
We hope you have found this useful, and please reply to this email with any feedback or topic suggestions you can. It will be the key to making this newsletter the best it can be.
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