Codeine Phosphate

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Codeine Phosphate – Buy Online in UK / EU

Codeine Phosphate is a widely prescribed opioid pain reliever used to treat mild to moderate pain, persistent cough, and diarrhoea when other medications are unsuitable. It works by converting into morphine in the body, which then binds to opioid receptors to reduce pain perception and provide relief.
In the UK and EU, Codeine Phosphate is available both as prescription-only medicine (POM) and in low-dose OTC combinations, depending on strength and formulation.

This guide provides a comprehensive, medically accurate, and SEO-focused overview of Codeine Phosphate, including brands, uses, advantages, risks, contraindications, symptoms, FAQs, and a smart meta description for maximum search visibility.

Common UK & EU Brands of Codeine Phosphate

Codeine is marketed under several trusted pharmaceutical brands, including:

  • Codeine Phosphate Tablets (Various generic UK/EU manufacturers)

  • Teva Codeine Phosphate

  • Almus Codeine Phosphate

  • Auden Mckenzie Codeine

  • Wockhardt Codeine Phosphate

  • Actavis Codeine Phosphate

  • Mylan Codeine

  • Pfizer/Hospira Codeine Phosphate Injection (clinical use)

  • Solpadol / Solpadeine (combined with paracetamol)

  • Co-Codamol generics (8/500, 15/500, 30/500 formulations)

Brand availability can vary by country.

What Is Codeine Phosphate Used For?

 

Primary Uses

✔️ Pain Relief – effective for mild–moderate pain, including:

  • Musculoskeletal pain

  • Period pain

  • Headaches & migraines

  • Dental pain

  • Injury-related pain

✔️ Cough Suppression – reduces persistent dry cough
✔️ Diarrhoea Treatment – slows bowel movements in chronic cases

How Codeine Works (Mechanism of Action)

Codeine is a prodrug, meaning it must be metabolised in the liver into morphine. The active metabolite binds to mu-opioid receptors, altering how the brain and nervous system interpret pain signals.

It also suppresses the cough reflex and slows intestinal motility, explaining its multi-purpose use.

Advantages of Codeine Phosphate

 

✔ Effective multi-purpose medication

Treats pain, cough, and diarrhoea in one agent.

✔ Useful when paracetamol or ibuprofen alone isn’t enough

Commonly used as step-up therapy.

✔ Widely available in multiple strengths and formulations

Tablets, soluble tablets, liquids, combination medicines.

✔ Lower addiction risk than stronger opioids

Though still carries dependence potential.

✔ Fast-acting

Pain relief often begins within 30–60 minutes.

Disadvantages & Risks

 

❌ Risk of dependence or tolerance

Prolonged use can lead to opioid dependence.

❌ Drowsiness and impaired alertness

Can affect driving and operating machinery.

❌ Constipation is very common

Often requires preventative measures.

❌ Not suitable for some metabolic types

People who are ultra-rapid metabolisers may experience toxicity.

❌ Interactions with alcohol, sedatives, or other opioids

Can cause respiratory depression.

❌ Withdrawal symptoms if stopped after long-term use.

When Not to Use Codeine Phosphate

Do not use Codeine if you:

  • Have severe asthma, breathing problems, or COPD

  • Are allergic to codeine or other opioids

  • Have acute respiratory depression

  • Are a child under 12

  • Are under 18 after tonsil or adenoid removal

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding (unless prescribed)

  • Have liver failure or severe kidney disease

  • Have paralytic ileus

  • Take MAOIs, sedatives, alcohol, or CNS depressants

  • Have obstructive sleep apnea

Symptoms & Side Effects

 

Common Side Effects

  • Drowsiness

  • Constipation

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Dry mouth

  • Dizziness

  • Light-headedness

Less Common

  • Mood changes

  • Difficulty urinating

  • Itching or skin reactions

Serious Symptoms (Seek urgent medical help):

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Confusion or extreme drowsiness

  • Severe abdominal pain

  • Fainting

  • Blue lips or fingertips

  • Slow heartbeat

💬 FAQ: Codeine Phosphate (UK & EU)

 

1. Is Codeine Phosphate addictive?

Yes, long-term use can cause dependence. Always follow the prescribed dose.

2. Can I take Codeine with alcohol?

No. Mixing increases the risk of respiratory depression.

3. How long does Codeine take to work?

Usually 30–60 minutes, lasting 3–6 hours.

4. Can I drive after taking Codeine?

Not recommended due to drowsiness. In the UK, it’s illegal to drive while impaired.

5. Is Codeine safe during pregnancy?

Only under strict medical supervision—risk of neonatal respiratory issues.

6. Can I take Codeine with ibuprofen or paracetamol?

Yes, commonly combined for stronger pain relief (e.g., Co-Codamol).

7. What is the maximum daily dose?

Follow your prescription. Typical adult limit is 240 mg per day, but varies by condition.

8. Can Codeine cause constipation?

Yes—very common. Hydration and fibre are important.

Conclusion

Codeine Phosphate remains a widely used and effective opioid medication for treating pain, chronic cough, and diarrhoea. It offers rapid relief, is clinically reliable, and is available under numerous trusted UK/EU brands. However, Codeine requires responsible use, as misuse can lead to dependence, sedation, impaired breathing, or dangerous interactions.
Understanding how Codeine works, when to use it, and when to avoid it ensures safe, effective, and informed treatment.

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