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”, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) announced.
GettyThe MHRA warned that codeine linctus can be addictive[/caption]
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 MHRA’s decision 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.
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.
“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, previously explained 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.
“There are many alternative non-codeine-based products available to treat a dry cough.”
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.
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 NHS website. Support groups and self-help groups are also available such as Talk to FRANK.
“We ask people to report any adverse reactions from codeine linctus via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.”
According to Rehabs UK, 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