Physician Perspectives on Codeine Accessibility, Patterns of Use, Misuse, and Dependence in Saudi Arabia

Abstract In Saudi Arabia, there are concerning rates of non-compliance with pharmaceutical regulations prohibiting the pharmacy dispensing prescription-only medications without a physician prescription. This is first study in Middle East which examines physicians’ perceptions regarding misuse codeine, listed as narcotic, controlled, and drug. The CODEMISUSED survey was adapted to Arabian context pilot tested, prior cross-sectional administration physicians Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, Jazan ( n = 105). Descriptive statistics (frequencies percentage) present level agreement, neutrality, disagreement statements codeine prescribing, patient awareness use, online community availability, dependence. indicates concern by intentional use enhance mood, patterns, lack around habit-forming iatrogenic dependence, sourcing via illegal dispensing. It underscores imperatives address compliance regulatory controls, implement enhanced pharmacovigilance, improve safe use.