Over The Counter (Otc) Analgesic Misuse: One Patient'S Journey

This case study is to demonstrate the journey experienced by a patient who had developed a dependency on large quantities of opioid analgesics she purchased from community pharmacy. It sets out to describe the patient's dependency, the quantities consumed (96 tablets most days), how she obtained the medication (both logistically and technique) and how she was treated once the dependency was disclosed. The article includes the patient's thoughts on actions that she feels should be taken and the signs that health care professionals should be aware of that are used by patients who have developed a dependency on opioid analgesics. The case study also demonstrates that patients can successfully be treated for opioid analgesic dependency, despite large quantities being used but there may be a need to use treatment alternatives and ensure the care provided is patient-centred.