Cough syrups could be prescription-only soon, here's why
Cough syrup (or codeine linctus as it's officially known) could be made prescription-only due to fears the opioid medicine is causing addiction problems and "major health consequences".
As you'll likely know, the oral syrup contains the ingredient codeine phosphate and is used to stop or suppress a dry cough, and is currently available over the counter in pharmacies.
But now, after considering 116 reports of recreational drug abuse, dependence and/or withdrawal to codeine medicines, including codeine linctus, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has launched a consultation to consider whether it should only be accessible via prescription from a GP.
Additionally, there were 227 serious and fatal adverse reactions to medicines containing codeine in 2021, 243 in 2022 and 95 so far this year.
The MHRA is calling on both experts and the public to share their views on the potential reclassification of the medicine (and that includes you, if you have an opinion!).
"Codeine linctus is an effective medicine, but as it is an opioid, its misuse and abuse can have major health consequences," said Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer. "Every response received will help us to develop a broader view on whether codeine linctus should be restricted to prescription-only status.
"We want to hear from members of the public, health professionals and others who would be affected by this potential change so we can make a properly considered decision for the benefit of patients, carers, and healthcare professionals across the UK."
Meanwhile, Professor Claire Anderson, President of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, said, "Medicines should maximise benefits to patient health with minimum risk. We believe there is insufficient robust evidence for the benefits of codeine linctus in treating coughs safely and appropriately. We also have significant concerns about its misuse and addictive potential, as well as the risk of overdose."
Plus, Anderson points out there are also many non-codeine based products available for the treatment of a dry cough. "With studies showing up to 60% of people are genetically predisposed to opioid dependence, the role of codeine linctus in treating what is ultimately a self-limiting condition is questionable."
Codeine is broken down in the body into morphine, but not everyone is able to metabolise codeine properly. On the other hand, some may break it down more rapidly and experience significant side effects, which is why the risk of addiction or toxic effects differs between individuals.
As for codeine linctus, it can make you feel dizzy and sleepy, which can also influence your ability to drive safely (and if this is the case, is considered an offence). Generally, it can also slow down breathing rate, cause constipation, allergic reactions, confusion and withdrawal reactions after you stop using it. You may also lose track of how much you've consumed, increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
The consultation will run for four weeks and is open until 15 August – so if you want to have your say you can voice it on the MHRA's online form.
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