News » Dispensary guidance news » Codeine linctus to become POM
February 22nd 2024
Codeine linctus, an oral solution or syrup licensed to treat dry cough in adults, is to be reclassified to a prescription-only medicine due to the risk of abuse, dependency and overdose, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has announced.
Codeine linctus was P status, but since 2019, there have been increasing reports in the media of codeine linctus being misused as an ingredient in a recreational drink, commonly referred to as ‘Purple Drank’.
The decision to reclassify the medicine has been made following a consultation with independent experts, healthcare professionals and patients. 992 responses were received.
The consultation was launched by the MHRA after Yellow Card reports indicated instances of the opioid medicine being abused, rather than for its intended use as a cough suppressant.
Responses to the consultation identified the pressure pharmacists were under to provide the medicine to those suffering from addiction.
Brands that will be removed from P sale are Codeine Linctus BP (LCM Limited, and Pinewood Laboratories Limited), Bells Healthcare Codeine Linctus 15mg/5ml Oral Solution (Bell Sons & Company [Druggists] Limited), Care Codeine 15mg/5ml Oral Solution Sugar Free (Thornton & Ross), Galcodine Linctus (Thornton & Ross) and Pulmo Bailly (Dendron Brands Limited).
