Table 1

Opioids of interest*

MedicineATC code†
OxycodoneN02AA05, N02AA55
TramadolN02AX02
BuprenorphineN02AE01, N07BC01, N07BC51
FentanylN02AB03
MorphineN02AA01
HydromorphoneN02AA03
MethadoneN02AC52, N07BC02
CodeineN02BE51, N02AA59, N02AA79, R05DA04‡
Tapentadol*N02AX06

  • *Tapentadol PBS-listed from 2014.

  • †ATC classification system is an internationally established methodology endorsed by the WHO that is used to classify medicines based on the organ or system on which they act, or their therapeutic and chemical characteristics. Details of the ATC classification system are found online at: http://www.who.int/classifications/atcddd/en/.

  • ‡Single ingredient codeine 30 mg tablets (opium alkaloids and derivatives) are ATC coded to the respiratory system R05D and not the nervous system N02A.

  • ATC, Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical; PBS, Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.