22.02.2024
All codeine linctus products – which were available over-the-counter for as little as £3 – are now prescription-only. Drug watchdogs are concerned about rising cases of serious, and sometimes fatal, side effects. The MHRA said the move would only affect five products: Codeine Linctus BP, Bell's healthcare codeine linctus, Care codeine, Galcodine Linctus, Pulmo Bailly
Figures released by the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ), and cited by the MHRA, revealed deaths involving codeine more than doubled in a decade, jumping from 88 in 2011 to 200 in 2021. The drugs watchdog has also received three case reports describing addiction specifically with codeine linctus
Health chiefs are also worried by reports that the drug is being used recreationally for its powerful opioid effects in 'Purple Drank' — a mixture containing codeine and soda.
Health chiefs are also worried by reports that the drug is being used recreationally for its powerful opioid effects in 'Purple Drank' — a mixture containing codeine and soda.
The NHS website offers advice on addiction, as do supports groups such as Talk to Frank.
Dr Cave said patient safety was the regulator's "top priority" which is why it took the decision to reclassify codeine linctus.
Professor Claire Anderson, president of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, welcomed the decision.
Codeine is a painki; it is part of a group of medicines called opiate
It works in the central nervous system and the brain to block pain signals to the rest of the body
It can be used when other painkillers have not worked
It also reduces the anxiety and stress caused by pain