A man set to marry credits his wife for saving him from a dangerous co-codamol addiction by presenting him with a choice between her and the drug. Ben Welthy’s reliance on the painkiller began in his twenties after a toothache prescription, leading to a debilitating habit of consuming 48 tablets daily over two and a half years. The drug’s potent mix of paracetamol and codeine caused him to fear for his health due to the excessive intake. Ben concealed his addiction by visiting multiple pharmacies and fabricating stories to procure the medication, until his fiancée discovered the truth shortly before their wedding.

Facing an ultimatum from his now-wife Donna Welthy, Ben opted to quit cold-turkey and has remained drug-free for five months. Reflecting on his struggle, Ben revealed the lengths he went to in order to feed his addiction, all while keeping it hidden from those closest to him. The withdrawal symptoms he experienced upon cessation were severe, but he persevered with his partner’s support.

Ben’s post-addiction journey includes a commitment to raising awareness about co-codamol accessibility and addressing the stigma associated with addiction to over-the-counter medications. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and breaking the silence surrounding such dependencies. Despite the challenges he faced, Ben is thankful for his wife’s intervention, acknowledging that her tough love ultimately saved his life.