BC Codeine Phosphate Tablets

Adult dose

As codeine phosphate hydrate, the single dose is 20 mg, taken orally 3 times a day. This dosage can be administered at least every 6 hours, up to 4 times a day. The maximum daily dosage must not exceed 240 mg. Dosage may be adjusted according to symptoms.

Child dose

As codeine phosphate hydrate, the recommended daily dosage is 30 to 60 mg, administered in divided doses every 6 hours. The recommended daily dosage is based on body weight (0.5 to 1 mg/kg). The maximum daily dose is 240 mg.

This medication is metabolized into morphine in the liver to exert its effects; however, the metabolism rate varies among individuals, which may lead to a rapid increase in morphine levels and significant adverse effects. If breathing slows down or becomes shallow during usage, accompanied by confusion, insomnia, constricted pupils, constipation, or decreased appetite, discontinue use immediately and consult a physician. Patients under 18 years of age who are obese or have obstructive sleep apnea or severe lung disease should preferably not use this medication. Concurrent use with other medications that have central nervous system depressant effects or alcohol can lead to severe sedation, respiratory depression, coma, or even death, so it is imperative to consult a physician. This medication should not be used in cases of acute respiratory depression, severe liver dysfunction, acute asthma or obstructive lung disease, hemorrhagic colitis, severe central nervous system abnormalities, during pregnancy, or while breastfeeding. Patients with impaired heart, liver, or kidney functions; elderly patients; frail patients; or those with a history of seizures should use this medication cautiously, and consult medical professionals immediately if any adverse reactions occur. This medication may cause dependence with prolonged use, so the dosage should not be abruptly reduced or stopped, and it should be gradually tapered under the guidance of healthcare professionals. Drowsiness and dizziness may occur during use, so driving or operating hazardous machinery should be avoided, and immediate treatment should be sought if respiratory distress or apnea occurs. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should preferably not use this medication, and if opioid analgesics are used during delivery, the newborn's respiratory condition should be monitored closely. If a breastfeeding mother takes this medication, the drug can pass into breast milk and may cause serious side effects in the baby, so breastfeeding should be discontinued. Children under 12 years old should not use this medication, and it is safer for those under 18 years old to avoid using it unless specifically warranted. In the event of overdose, severe respiratory depression, decreased consciousness, or hypotension may occur, necessitating immediate emergency care and potentially the administration of opioid antagonists. When storing, keep in a safe place out of reach of children, and it is advisable not to transfer to another container. Finally, this medication is metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP2D6, and individuals with very rapid enzyme activity may have increased morphine levels, raising the risk of toxicity, necessitating caution.

Serious side effects

Slow or shallow breathing, respiratory distress, apnea, respiratory tightness, respiratory depression, confusion, seizures, laryngeal edema, paralytic ileus, toxic megacolon, severe allergic reactions, severe rashes, asthma attacks, respiratory depression related to obstructive sleep apnea, liver abnormalities (jaundice), coma due to severe liver dysfunction, severe neurological symptoms, headache, seizures, confusion of consciousness, visual disturbances, paralysis, severe swelling, increased blood pressure, bradycardia, hypotension, and respiratory arrest.

Mild side effects

Confusion, insomnia, constricted pupils, constipation, decreased appetite, drowsiness, dizziness, visual disturbances, sweating, nausea, vomiting, arrhythmias, blood pressure fluctuations, facial redness, rash, itching, urination difficulties, yawning, sneezing, tearing, perspiration, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dilated pupils, headache, anxiety, hallucinations, tremors, pain in muscles and joints throughout the body, palpitations

Store this medication in a sealed container to avoid contact with air, and it is recommended to keep it at room temperature between 1 and 30 degrees Celsius. Proper storage helps maintain the drug's effectiveness and prevents degradation.

Appearance

Round tablets, white to light yellow

Package unit

100 tablets/bottle, 100 tablets (10 tablets/PTP × 10)