Description

Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets are a prescription-only medication used to relieve moderate to severe pain when other pain relief methods, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, are not effective. Codeine belongs to a group of medicines known as opioid analgesics, which work by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain.

These tablets contain 30mg of codeine phosphate, an opioid that acts on the central nervous system to reduce pain perception and produce a calming, sedative effect. In addition to its pain-relieving properties, codeine can also be used to manage persistent dry coughs and diarrhea in specific cases, although its primary use is for pain management.

🔹 Common Uses:

• Post-operative pain

• Injury-related pain

• Muscular and joint pain

• Dental pain

• Headaches and migraines (if non-opioid medications are insufficient)

🔹 How It Works:

Codeine is converted in the liver to morphine, which then binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. This action reduces the transmission of pain signals, resulting in effective pain relief and a sense of well-being in some patients.

🔹 Dosage and Administration:

• Typically prescribed for adults: 15–60mg every 4 to 6 hours, as needed.

• Maximum dose: 240mg in 24 hours.

• Tablets should be taken whole with water, with or without food.

• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible.

🔹 Warnings and Precautions:

• Codeine may cause drowsiness, constipation, nausea, dry mouth, and dizziness.

• Prolonged use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms.

• Should not be used by individuals with respiratory conditions, head injuries, or a history of substance misuse.

• Codeine is not recommended for children under 12, and caution is advised for adolescents aged 12–18 with breathing problems.

• Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless specifically prescribed.

🔹 Interactions:

Codeine can interact with:

• Other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines)

• MAO inhibitors

• Certain antidepressants

• Medications affecting liver enzymes

🔹 Storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Do not use past the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Uses of Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets

1. Moderate to Severe Pain Relief

   • Effective in treating pain not managed by non-opioid analgesics like paracetamol or ibuprofen.

   • Often used after surgery, injury, or for long-term conditions like arthritis.

2. Dry, Persistent Cough

   • Acts as an antitussive (cough suppressant) by working on the brain’s cough center.

3. Diarrhea Management (off-label)

   • Occasionally used when other treatments are ineffective, due to its constipating effects.

✅ Benefits of Codeine Phosphate 30mg

1. Strong Analgesic Properties

   • Provides effective relief from pain when paracetamol or NSAIDs are not enough.

2. Fast-Acting Relief

   • Begins to work within 30–60 minutes of ingestion and lasts several hours.

3. Can Be Combined with Other Medications

   • Often prescribed with paracetamol (co-codamol) or ibuprofen to enhance pain relief.

4. Improves Sleep in Painful Conditions

   • Helps users sleep better by reducing pain intensity during nighttime.

5. Calms Persistent, Dry Cough

   • Especially useful when the cough disrupts rest or causes discomfort.

⚠️ Important Notes

• Should be used short-term due to risk of tolerance, dependence, and constipation.

• Not suitable for children under 12 or people with breathing issues, head injuries, or liver problems without doctor supervision.