Codeine Misuse and Dependence in Primary Care

Registration is now open for The 2026 IGNITE Network of Trainees Conference taking place on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th November, at Johnstown Estate. Links:

• Programme
• Registration portal

Participants

• Dr Bernard Kenny, GP Specialising in Substance Misuse; Director of Addiction Management in Primary Care, Irish College of GPs

• Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

In this Dr John Maher is joined by Dr Bernard Kenny to discuss codeine misuse and dependence in primary care. The conversation follows the recent launch or the newly revised Irish College of GPs Foundation Course in Addiction Management.

The course is free for Irish College of GP members, and is also suitable for GP Registrars and Practice Nurses. It attracts GMS study leave and CPD credits.

Completing the foundation course is a prerequisite for those interested in pursuing a Level 1 Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) contract with the HSE.

College Links:

• Irish College of GPs Website
• College Addiction Management Programme Overview
• Foundation Course in Addiction Management (Level 1)
• Certificate Course in Addiction Management (Level 2)

Other Relevant Links:

• OST Protocol – How to Become a Prescriber
• HSE OST Guidelines 2017
• Drug misuse and dependence: UK guidelines on clinical management
• HRB Bulletin: 2024 Drug Treatment Demand
• HPRA review of over the counter medications containing codeine
• Health Research Board Drug and Alcohol Survey
• Patterns of Analgesic Prescribing and High-Risk Prescribing in Primary Care in Ireland 2014-2022-a Repeated Cross-Sectional Study. European Journal of Pain. 2025. Mattsson M, Hassan Ali A, Boland F, et al

Disclaimer
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor does it replace independent clinical judgment or consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

This podcast does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. Healthcare professionals should exercise their own professional judgment in evaluating and applying information to specific clinical situations. Patients or members of the public should seek advice from their own qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment. It may not be possible or appropriate in all circumstances to follow the advice/processes suggested in this podcast, for example due to resource availability.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, producers, affiliated organizations and the Irish College of GPs are not liable for any direct or indirect consequences resulting from the use of the information provided.