Description
Codeine Phosphate 30mg: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & UK Information
What Is Codeine Phosphate 30mg?
Codeine phosphate 30mg is a prescription-only opioid painkiller used to relieve mild to moderate pain when everyday painkillers such as paracetamol or aspirin have not been effective. codeine phosphate pill
In some cases, codeine may also be prescribed to treat diarrhoea.
What Is Codeine Used For?
Codeine phosphate may be prescribed for:
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Moderate pain
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Pain following injury or surgery
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Pain not controlled by standard pain relief
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Short-term treatment of diarrhoea
In the UK, codeine is usually prescribed for short-term use only due to the risk of dependence.
How Does Codeine Work?
Codeine belongs to a group of medicines called opioid (narcotic) analgesics.
It works by acting on the central nervous system, where it:
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Blocks pain signals from reaching the brain
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Reduces how strongly pain is felt
Because it affects the nervous system, codeine can also cause drowsiness and slow digestion.
Codeine Phosphate Dosage (UK Guidance)
The correct dose of codeine depends on:
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Your age
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Your medical condition
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Your response to treatment
Only a doctor or qualified prescriber can decide the right dose.
General UK guidance:
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Adults and young people aged 12 years and over
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Typical dose: 15mg to 60mg, taken up to four times daily codeine phosphate pill
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Maximum adult daily dose: 240mg
⚠️ Always follow your prescriber’s instructions.
Do not increase, reduce, or stop the dose without medical advice.
Stopping Codeine Safely
Stopping codeine suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, including:
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Restlessness or irritability
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Nausea or vomiting
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Stomach pain
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Irregular heartbeat
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Breathing difficulties
If codeine needs to be stopped, your doctor will usually reduce the dose gradually.
Codeine Side Effects
Like all medicines, codeine can cause side effects. Many are mild and temporary.
Common side effects include:
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Headache
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Abdominal cramps
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Difficulty passing urine
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Drowsiness
Contact a healthcare professional if these symptoms persist or worsen.
Serious side effects (seek medical help urgently):
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Breathing problems
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Irregular heartbeat
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Confusion, agitation, or hallucinations
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Difficulty swallowing
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Seizures
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Vision problems
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Rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat
🚨 A severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Call 999 immediately if breathing becomes difficult or swelling occurs.
Important Warnings
Codeine phosphate may not be suitable for everyone. Tell your prescriber if you:
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Have breathing problems or sleep apnoea
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Have liver or kidney disease
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Have a history of alcohol or drug dependence
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Are pregnant or breastfeeding
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Have had allergic reactions to opioids
Codeine can cause dependence if used for long periods.
Getting Codeine Phosphate 30mg in the UK
Codeine phosphate 30mg is a prescription-only medicine in the UK.
If prescribed following a medical assessment, it can be supplied by a UK-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your home
