Using the dose recommended, Codeine Linctus is not considered to be a hazard, however the use of codeine phosphate at higher doses or in more sensitive individuals may cause sedation, dizziness and nausea. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery if affected by dizziness or sedation. Codeine and dihydrocodeine can affect the baby's breathing if taken in the last trimester, or during labour in large amounts. Heavy use may also cause a withdrawal syndrome in the newborn infant. However, small doses for a short period of time to treat specific pain are sometimes prescribed but only under the strict guidance of a doctor. Be aware that some over-the-counter painkillers contain codeine or dihydrocodeine. Heartburn, also known as indigestion or acid reflux, is common during pregnancy for a number of reasons including hormonal changes. To treat heartburn during pregnancy try the following:

Drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, or headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Your doctor may recommend the non-sedating antihistamines loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine. These have not been shown to cause harm when used in pregnancy. • Piriton during pregnancy If you experience persistent diarrhoea during pregnancy make an urgent appointment with your doctor. Vaginal thrush during pregnancy Each 4 ml contains: Cetylpyridinium Chloride BP 1.5mg, Benzoin Tincture BPC 1973 0.083ml, Ipecacuanha Tincture BP 0.1ml, Capsicum Tincture BPC 1973 0.022ml.Alternatively, short-term use of nasal sprays containing corticosteroids such as beclometasone, budesonide or fluticasone is unlikely to cause any harm during pregnancy. With long-term use sufficient steroid could be absorbed to impair the growth of the baby, so these should only be used after discussing any risks with your doctor or pharmacist. • Antihistamines during pregnancy

Metabolism of opioid analgesics is inhibited by cimetidine leading to increased plasma concentration. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Take the tablet, capsule, or liquid form by mouth with or without food. This medication may be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors: MAOIs taken with pethidine have been associated with severe CNS excitation or depression (including hypertension or hypotension). Although this has not been documented with codeine, it is possible that a similar interaction may occur and therefore the use of codeine should be avoided while the patient is taking MAOIs and for 2 weeks after MAOI discontinuation, including MAO-B inhibitor selegiline. This may also apply to the antibacterial linezolid, which is a reversible, non-selective MOA inhibitor. Medicines in the first trimester: the first trimester is the period of greatest risk for the baby, because during this stage the baby's organs are developing. Some medicines taken during this time have the potential to affect this development, which could result in malformations or birth defects. If a defect is very severe this could cause a miscarriage.

References

This medicinal product contains 3.6% vol ethanol (alcohol), equivalent to 0.18ml of ethanol per 5ml dose. Harmful to those suffering from alcoholism. Other groups sensitive to alcohol such as children and patients with liver disease or epilepsy should seek medical advice if unsure about taking this medicine. Also contain E128, which may cause allergic reactions (possibly delayed). Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you accidentally take too much, your symptoms persist or you notice any unusual side effects. If you are using a product made to dissolve in the mouth (such as strips), dry your hands before handling the medication. Place each dose on the tongue and allow to dissolve completely, then swallow it with saliva or with water. Liquid products, chewable tablets, or dissolving tablets/strips may contain sugar, alcohol, or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, liver disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Codeine Linctus and other cough suppressants may cause sputum retention and this may be harmful in patients with chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana ( cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). Many doctors will only recommend simple linctus or honey and lemon syrups as we do not have enough data on medicines in pregnancy and their effects on the developing fetus.Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, xylometazoline and oxymetazoline should definitely be avoided during pregnancy. These have blood vessel constricting effects that could potentially restrict blood supply to the placenta, or cause problems for women with a history of pre-eclampsia.