Common cough syrup poses ‘addiction and overdose risk’ – and will only be available with prescription
A COMMON cough syrup will no longer be available over-the-counter due fears people could become addicted to it.
Codeine linctus, a syrup used to treat dry coughs in adults, will now only be available via prescription "due to the risk of abuse, dependency and overdose".
Codeine linctus is an opioid medicine that was previously been available to buy in pharmacies under the supervision of a pharmacist.
Now Brits will only be able to buy it with a prescription after being assessed by a healthcare professional.
The decision by the (MHRA) follows increasing reports of codeine linctus being used recreationally, rather than as a cough suppressant.
The syrup has been used to make concoction known as 'lean' or 'purple drank', a beverage loaded with codeine, antihistamines and fizzy pop that can cause dangerous side effects.
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In response to Yellow Card reports - the medicines regulator's system for reporting drug side affects and reactions - showing instances of codeine linctus being abused, the MHRA launched a consultation on the medicine in July 2023.
It asked independent experts, healthcare professionals and patients whether codeine linctus should be reclassified to prescription-only, garnering 992 responses.
Responses to the consultation identified the pressure pharmacists were under to provide the medicine to those suffering from addiction.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, said: “Patient safety is our top priority.
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"Codeine linctus is an effective medicine for long term dry cough, but as it is an opioid, its misuse and abuse can have major health consequences.
“As a result, and taking into account the reports we have received in relation to abuse, we have reclassified codeine linctus to a prescription-only medicine for the benefit of patients, carers and healthcare professionals across the UK."
The MHRA urged Brits not to buy codeine linctus from an unregistered website as it could be dangerous.
Andy Morling, MHRA Deputy Director of Criminal Enforcement, that buying medicines from somewhere other than a pharmacy "poses a direct danger to your health as they will not meet our strict quality and safety standards".
Patients will still have other over-the-counter options available to them to soothe cough or sore throats, including honey and lemon mixtures and cough suppressants.
Professor Claire Anderson, President of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, said: "We welcome the decision to reclassify codeine linctus to a prescription-only medication as a positive step to protect patient safety.
“This decision not only addresses concerns about the misuse and addictive potential of codeine linctus but also underscores the importance of prioritising patient well-being.
“Many community pharmacists already no longer stock codeine linctus due to concerns about addiction and abuse," she added.
"Those that do provide it often experience aggression from patients if they refuse a sale because in their clinical judgement it’s not appropriate to supply the medicine."
Michelle Riddalls, Chief Executive Officer of PAGB, said the consumer healthcare association also supported the MHRA's announcement.
“The decision to reclassify codeine linctus will ensure that people are only able to access medicines that allow them to self-care safely," he said.
Tips for soothing a dry cough
Prof Anderson: “There are many alternative non-codeine-based products available to treat a dry cough."
She recommended you speak to a pharmacist about suitable treatments.
Meanwhile, the RPS shared the following tips for soothing a dry cough:
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- Rest and drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated
- Have warm drinks or water with honey and lemon to soothe your throat
- Ask your pharmacist about cough medicines and cough sweets to help you cough less
- If your cough persists for longer than three to four weeks, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice
What should I do if I'm addicted to codeine linctus?
THE MHRA urge people who think they've become dependent on or addicted to codeine linctus to seek advice from healthcare professionals.
Dr Alison Cave said: “Codeine addiction can be a gradual process.
"If you have been taking it for a long time and want to stop, you can talk to your healthcare provider and reduce the amount you take slowly.
“If you feel that you are addicted or have concerns for someone who has been using codeine linctus for too long, you can seek advice on the . Support groups and self-help groups are also available such as .
“We ask people to report any adverse reactions from codeine linctus via the MHRA .”
According to , signs of a codeine addiction include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- A blue tinge to lips and fingernails
- Muscle twitches or spasms
- Dizziness and fainting
- A dry mouth
- Itching and rashes
- Difficulty urinating
- Low blood pressure
- Seizures
- Slower breathing
- Clammy hands and feet
- Stomach pain
- Changes in vision