Description

Accord Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets are a prescription-only medication (POM) developed and distributed by Accord-UK Ltd, a reputable pharmaceutical manufacturer known for producing a wide range of generic medicines. Each tablet contains 30 milligrams of codeine phosphate, an opioid analgesic that works by acting on specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord to reduce the sensation of pain and suppress cough reflexes.

These tablets are primarily indicated for the management of moderate to severe pain, particularly when pain cannot be effectively controlled with non-opioid analgesics such as paracetamol or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They are also commonly used in the treatment of persistent, dry (non-productive) coughs, where they help to calm the cough reflex by acting directly on the cough centre in the brain. In addition to their analgesic and antitussive effects, Accord Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets may be prescribed for the short-term relief of diarrhoea, especially in cases where other antidiarrhoeal agents have failed to provide adequate symptom control.

Due to its classification as an opioid, codeine phosphate carries the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, constipation, and the potential for dependence or misuse if taken for extended periods. As a result, its use is carefully regulated and it should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. These tablets are not suitable for use in children under 12 years of age or in individuals with certain medical conditions, such as severe respiratory disorders or known hypersensitivity to opioids.

Overall, Accord Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets serve as an important option for patients who require stronger relief from pain or symptom management when other standard therapies are insufficient or inappropriate.

Product Name

Accord Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets

Manufacturer

Accord-UK Ltd, a UK-based pharmaceutical company known for producing generic medicines.

Therapeutic Class

• Opioid analgesic

• Also classified as an antitussive (cough suppressant) and antidiarrhoeal in certain uses.

Key Information

• Active Ingredient: Each tablet contains 30mg of codeine phosphate, an opioid analgesic.

• Appearance: White, circular, biconvex uncoated tablets, impressed with “C” on one face and “CO” on the reverse. 

• Mechanism of Action: Codeine is a weak opioid that is metabolised in the liver to morphine, which provides its analgesic effect by acting on μ-opioid receptors. 

• Usage: Typically prescribed for adults and children over 12 years of age for short-term relief of moderate pain that is not relieved by other analgesics such as paracetamol or ibuprofen alone. 

• Addiction Risk: As an opioid, codeine carries a risk of addiction, especially with prolonged use. It is important to follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions carefully and not to exceed the recommended dose. 

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include drowsiness, constipation, nausea, and dizziness. Serious side effects can include respiratory depression, especially in high doses or when combined with other central nervous system depressants. 

• Recent Updates: As of May 2023, the packaging for this medication was updated to a 20μ Aluminium/250μ PVC blister pack, with corresponding changes in the product’s Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC).