Introduction to Codeine 30/60mg Tablets

Codeine is a medication prescribed by doctors to help control pain in children. It is important to follow your doctor’s advice when giving codeine to your child. This article provides information on how to administer codeine, the available forms, dosage instructions, and precautions to consider while using Codeine 30/60mg tablets.

Forms of Codeine 30/60mg Tablets

Codeine is available in different forms, including tablets, clear liquid medicine, and suppositories. The tablets come in strengths of 15 mg, 30 mg, and 60 mg, but Codeine 30/60mg tablets are most commonly used. The liquid medicine contains 25 mg of codeine in 5 mL and may contain a small amount of sugar and ethanol. Suppositories are available in various strengths.

When to Give Codeine

If your child experiences continuous pain throughout the day and night, codeine can be given every 6 hours to help alleviate the pain. For intermittent pain that comes and goes, administer a dose of codeine when your child first complains of pain. Wait at least 6 hours before giving another dose, and avoid exceeding four doses within a 24-hour period. Keep track of the time you administer each dose for reference.

Dosage Instructions Regarding Codeine 30/60mg Tablets

The appropriate dose of codeine for your child will be determined by the doctor and will be indicated on the medicine label. It is essential to follow the prescribed dose accurately.

Administration Methods

Tablets:

Codeine tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, squash, or juice. They should not be chewed.

Liquid Medicine:

Shake the liquid medicine well before use. Use an oral syringe or a medicine spoon to measure the correct amount. Avoid using a kitchen teaspoon, as it may not provide the accurate dosage.

Suppositories:

Suppositories are inserted into the rectum. Ideally, your child should have a bowel movement before inserting a codeine suppository. Wash your hands thoroughly. With your child lying on their side or front, gently hold one buttock to expose the rectum. Insert the suppository with the rounded end close to the back passage, about 2 cm deep. The lubricating gel can be used to make the insertion more comfortable. After insertion, your child should lie down for approximately 15 minutes to ensure the suppository stays in place.

Onset of Action

Codeine generally starts relieving pain within 30 minutes of administration. The full effects may take up to an hour. If you have concerns about its effectiveness, consult your doctor.

Dealing with Vomiting (Sickness):
If your child vomits after taking codeine in tablet or liquid form, do not administer another dose. Wait until the next scheduled dose and seek advice from a doctor, pharmacist, or hospital. However, if your child vomits after using suppositories, there is no need to worry, as the suppositories will still work.

Missed Dose

If a dose of codeine is missed and your child is in pain, give the missed dose as soon as you remember. Wait at least 6 hours before giving the next scheduled dose.

Overdose or Giving Too Much

If you suspect that your child has been given an excessive amount of codeine, contact your doctor, or local NHS services, or take your child to the hospital. Take the medicine container or packaging with you for reference.

Other Medications and Codeine 30/60mg Tablets

It is generally safe to administer codeine alongside medicines containing paracetamol or ibuprofen unless specifically advised against by your doctor. However, it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications your child is taking, including herbal and complementary remedies. Avoid giving other painkillers or cough medicines containing codeine to your child if they have already been given codeine.

Additional Information

If your child has asthma or epilepsy, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you get to know that some people become addicted to or dependent on codeine. It is unexpected to happen when codeine is used for children in pain for a short time.

Conclusion

If you are unsure whether a medication is effective, it is important to contact your doctor. However, it is important to continue administering the medication as prescribed in the meantime, without giving any extra doses. This medication should only be given to your child and never to anyone else, even if their symptoms appear to be similar. To avoid overdosing, it is advisable to keep a record of the times the medication is given. It is also important to ensure that there is always enough medication available, and to order Codeine 30/60mg tablets for a new prescription, visit Super Meds UK, at least two weeks before it is expected to run out. To prevent harm, it is crucial to check the expiry dates of the medications at home and to dispose of any that have expired by taking them to the pharmacist.