Pholcodine helps suppress cough. It is used to treat dry or non-productive cough (a type of cough that does not produce much phlegm).
Take Pholcodine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
This medicine is available as a linctus (syrup). Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- lung problem or disease e.g. breathing difficulties, asthma attack, infection of the airways of the lungs, abnormal widening of the airways of the lungs, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (a long-term lung disease that causes airflow obstruction making it hard to breathe)
- liver failure (loss of liver function)
as Pholcodine may not be suitable for you.
Do not give this medicine to children below 6 years old unless instructed to do so by the doctor.
Do not take Pholcodine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine that is used to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- history of asthma or other breathing problems
- long-term or persistent cough
- history of drug abuse
- liver problems
- kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Pholcodine to a child (6 years old and above). Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
If you are going to have an operation requiring general anaesthesia with neuromuscular blocking agents (medicines used for blocking pain and sensation, and relaxing the muscles during procedures), inform your doctor that you are currently taking or have taken Pholcodine in the last 12 months.
Pholcodine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, and feeling nervous or excited.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- red and scaly rash with bumps under the skin accompanied by fever
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes, or mouth
- signs and symptoms of adrenal insufficiency (a rare disorder where the adrenal glands produce insufficient hormones) e.g. nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, low blood pressure
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Pholcodine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any of these medicines:
- medicines for anxiety e.g. diazepam
- medicines for sleep disorder e.g. amobarbital
- strong painkillers e.g. fentanyl, morphine
- medicines for high blood pressure
- water pills or medicines for water retention
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Pholcodine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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