Adults: 5–7.5 ml (one to one-and-a-half 5 ml spoonfuls), up to 3–4 times a day if needed. Repeat every 4–6 hours. Maximum: 30 ml in 24 hours.
Elderly or debilitated: Lower dose recommended; consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Adolescents (12–18 years): Same as adult dose, but not recommended if they have breathing problems.
Children under 12: Contraindicated (do not use) due to risk of serious breathing issues.
Duration: Do not use for more than 3 days without medical advice. It is meant for short-term relief only.
Always use a proper measuring device (not a household spoon) and follow the label or pharmacist instructions exactly.
Important Warnings and Side Effects
Codeine is an opioid, so it carries risks:
Common side effects: Drowsiness, constipation, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, or headache.
Serious risks: Respiratory depression (slowed breathing), especially in children, the elderly, or those with breathing conditions. Overdose can be life-threatening.
Addiction and dependence: Prolonged or excessive use can lead to physical dependence and misuse. In some regions (e.g., parts of Ireland), pharmacists limit sales due to abuse concerns, and codeine syrups have been linked to addiction issues.
Contraindications: Not for use in pregnancy/breastfeeding (especially contraindicated while breastfeeding due to risk to the infant), severe liver/kidney issues, certain respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD), or if you are a CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizer (genetic variation that converts codeine to morphine too quickly).
Interactions: Avoid with alcohol, other sedatives, or opioids. It can impair driving or operating machinery.
Note: Recent studies suggest codeine may not be significantly more effective than placebo for many common coughs, and non-opioid options (e.g., honey for mild coughs, or other suppressants like dextromethorphan) are often preferred when possible.














Reviews
There are no reviews yet.