Professor John Henry says that this statement is inaccurately reported. It is found in a large number of non-prescription cough and cold remedies, usually in combination with decongestants and antihistamines. Typical UK legitimate dose forms. It acts centrally to elevate the threshold for coughing. It has agonist actions on serotonergic neurotransmission and also has anticonvulsant activity in animals.
Codeine can cause constipation, inhibition of mucocillary clearance and dependence.
The average dose for adults of the hydrobromide salt is 10 to 30 mg three to six times daily, but higher doses are often required. Adverse effects at normal doses are mild and infrequent, but include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, and skin problems. Pholcodine is a centrally acting cough suppressant that has actions and uses similar to those of dextromethorphan. It is administered by mouth in a usual dose of 5 to 10 mg three or four times daily. The compound may be detected in urine samples for many days after a therapeutic dose.