MHRA SEEKS PUBLIC OPINION ON OPIOID-CONTAINING COUGH MEDICINE
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has launched a public consultation on the potential reclassification of codeine linctus as a prescription-only medicine.
H
ealth professionals and the public have until Tuesday 15 August to share their insights and opinions on this
proposed change.
Codeine linctus, an oral solution containing codeine phosphate, has been traditionally used to alleviate dry coughs and has been available as a pharmacy medicine, purchasable over the counter. However, the MHRA has noted an increasing number of Yellow Card reports suggesting that this medication is being misused for its opioid effects rather than its intended cough-suppressant properties.
With misuse and abuse of opioids having severe health implications, the MHRA is keen to gather a wide range of perspectives from individuals, including members of the public, health professionals, and others who may be affected by this potential reclassification.
Dr. Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, emphasized the need to ensure that any decision made is for the benefit of patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals throughout the UK.
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Professor Claire Anderson, President of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, expressed support for the consultation, highlighting concerns about the addictive potential of codeine linctus and the lack of robust evidence for its effectiveness in treating coughs safely.
With numerous non-codeine based alternatives available for treating dry coughs, the appropriateness of codeine linctus for self- limiting conditions comes into question.
The consultation aims to determine whether codeine linctus should only be accessible through a prescription, under the prescribing judgment of a GP. The MHRA's commitment to ensuring the safe use of medicines, particularly those with high addictive potential, underscores the significance of gathering public input on this matter.
Codeine linctus, being an opioid medicine, carries the risk of addiction and potential side effects that can vary depending on individual metabolism. It may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired driving ability.
Additionally, it can slow breathing, lead to constipation, allergic reactions, confusion, and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation.
Accidental overdose is also a concern, as individuals may lose track of their consumption.
The MHRA, responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK, emphasizes the importance of fact-based judgments to ensure the safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products.
This four-week consultation period, running from 18th July to 15th August 2023, aims to address the 116 Yellow Card reports received since 2018, documenting recreational drug abuse, dependence, and withdrawal related to codeine medicines, including codeine linctus.
The public's participation in this consultation is pivotal in shaping the future classification of codeine linctus, potentially paving the way for safer use and a healthier healthcare landscape in the UK.
UK COUGH SYRUP COULD BECOME ‘PRESCRIPTION ONLY’ AMID ADDICTION CONCERNS
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