Why is codeine added to cough syrup? What are its disadvantages?

In the last few months, a large network of smuggling of codeine based cough syrup has been caught in Varanasi. Thousands of bottles were being sent to different states and neighboring countries in the name of many fake pharmaceutical companies and medical stores. Investigation revealed that many firms existed only on paper and did not actually exist. These companies have been accused of selling syrup illegally without license, hiding stock and giving false documents. The administration has so far seized several lakh bottles and dozens of FIRs have been registered. This whole matter raises serious questions on the misuse of cough syrup as an intoxicant and its illegal supply. For this reason, it has now become important to understand why codeine is added to cough syrup and what are its side effects.

codeine It is an opioid medicine, which is given for pain and persistent cough. It affects the part of the body that controls pain and cough signals. In medical language it is called cough suppressant, that is, it works to suppress cough. Doctors give it in limited quantities only in special cases because it is a habit-forming medicine. If taken for a long time, the body becomes habituated to it and gradually the need for a higher dose is felt. For this reason it is controlled under narcotic drugs. Consuming it without doctor’s advice can be dangerous and in many countries it is kept under strict control.

Why is codeine added to cough syrup? What are its disadvantages?

Dr. Subhash Giri in the Department of Medicine at RML Hospital, Delhi. It is said that codeine is added to cough syrup because it is a medicine that calms cough immediately. It affects the part of the brain that sends signals to cough, hence providing immediate relief from dry, strong and persistent cough. But its disadvantages are bigger than its benefits. Codeine is an opioid, that is, it gives relaxation and mild sleep-like effect to the body, due to which the desire to take it again and again increases.

Continuous consumption can lead to addiction and the body gets used to it, after which smaller quantity has no effect. Overdose may result in slow breathing, confusion, unconsciousness, low blood pressure and sometimes even life-threatening symptoms. Its side effects increase further in pregnant women, children and already sick people. Therefore, it is considered safe to take it only on doctor’s advice and for a limited period of time.

What do experts say?

Dr. Subhash Giri Told that codeine is an effective medicine, but it should be used with extreme caution. This medicine should be given only for short periods of time in case of severe cough or pain. Long-term use increases the possibility of addiction, mental dependence and physical harm.

The reason for the increasing smuggling of codeine syrup in the market is its use as an intoxicant, due to which the youth are increasingly getting affected. Strict monitoring is necessary on the sale of such medicines and strict steps should be taken to stop their supply through fake companies, so that its misuse can be reduced.