What is Codeine (codeine phosphate)?
Codeine, the active ingredient in codeine phosphate, is a so-called analgesic, a medicine designed to relieve pain. Codeine decreases pain signals or stops them from reaching the brain, thus reducing or eliminating pain.

How does this treatment work?
Codeine is classed as an opiate painkiller (also called opiates or opioids).
It works by binding to the opioid receptors in your brain, which reduces the amount of pain you experience. It is also sometimes used to ease a dry cough or to manage short episodes of diarrhoea.

How to use Codeine (codeine phosphate)?
Codeine (codeine phosphate) tablets should be swallowed whole with some liquid, preferably with meals to avoid stomach distress. If you are taking more than one dose of codeine a day, remember to leave at least four hours between doses.
If you have missed a dose, you may take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Never take an extra codeine tablet to make up for the forgotten one. See package leaflet for more information.

Important safety information
Codeine phosphate solution may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to codeine phosphate solution. Using codeine phosphate solution alone, with certain other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or perform other potentially dangerous tasks.
Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness (eg, sedatives, tranquilizers) while taking codeine phosphate solution. Codeine phosphate solution will add to the effects of alcohol and other depressants. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines are depressants.
Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using codeine phosphate solution.
Use codeine phosphate solution with caution in the ELDERLY because they may be more sensitive to its effects.