Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets

Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets contain 30mg of codeine phosphate per tablet. Codeine is an opioid medicine used for the relief of certain types of pain and, depending on the specific product and local licensing requirements, may have other authorised uses. For independent medicine information, see the NHS Codeine information page.

What Are Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets Used For?

Codeine phosphate may be prescribed for the short-term treatment of acute moderate pain when other suitable painkillers have not provided adequate relief. The appropriate dose and duration depend on the individual patient and should be determined by a qualified healthcare professional.

For detailed professional prescribing information, including indications, contraindications, interactions and dosing information, consult the Summary of Product Characteristics for Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets.

How Does Codeine Work?

Codeine belongs to a group of medicines known as opioids. It works on the central nervous system to reduce the perception of pain. Codeine is metabolised in the body, with part of the medicine converted into morphine, which contributes to its analgesic effect.

Because codeine is an opioid, it can cause drowsiness, constipation, nausea and dizziness. It can also lead to tolerance, dependence and addiction, particularly when taken at higher doses or for prolonged periods.

How to Take Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take more tablets than prescribed, take doses more frequently than instructed, or continue treatment for longer than recommended.

Swallow the tablets with water. If you forget a dose, follow the instructions supplied with your medicine or ask your pharmacist for advice. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

The appropriate dose varies between individuals. Always follow the dosing instructions on your prescription and the patient information leaflet supplied with your particular product. You can also review the official patient information leaflet for additional information.

Important Safety Information

Codeine can cause drowsiness and impaired alertness. Do not drive, operate machinery or perform activities requiring full concentration if you feel sleepy, dizzy or impaired after taking the medicine.

Avoid alcohol while taking codeine unless your healthcare professional has specifically advised otherwise. Combining codeine with alcohol or other medicines that cause sedation can increase the risk of serious side effects, including excessive sedation and breathing difficulties. The NHS guidance on codeine provides additional information about interactions and precautions.

Codeine can also cause dependence and addiction. Use it at the lowest effective dose for the shortest appropriate period and never give your medicine to another person.

 

Children, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Codeine has important age-related restrictions and is not appropriate for all children or adolescents. Always check the specific product information and follow the advice of a healthcare professional.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding, speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking codeine. Codeine may pass into breast milk and can potentially cause serious opioid-related effects in a breastfed infant.

Storage

Keep Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets out of the sight and reach of children. Store the medicine according to the instructions on the packaging and do not use it after the expiry date.

Unused or unwanted opioid medicines should be disposed of responsibly. Ask your pharmacist about the appropriate disposal method rather than sharing the medicine or keeping it for future use without medical advice.