Pholcodine
Pholcodine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Pholcodine is a brand name. Its generic name is Pholcodine.
Pholcodine: An Overview
Pholcodine is an opioid analgesic and antitussive drug. It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce coughing. It belongs to a class of medications called opioid analgesics and antitussives. It works by affecting the central nervous system to reduce both pain and coughing.
Uses for Pholcodine
Pholcodine is used for treating pain and reducing coughing. It is commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain, especially when combined with other medications such as codeine. It can also be used as a cough suppressant to reduce the intensity of coughs due to colds, bronchitis, and other medical conditions.
Mechanism of Action
Pholcodine works by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system and blocking the transmission of pain signals from the brain. It also suppresses cough reflexes by depressing the central cough center. Pholcodine is not an antihistamine, so it does not reduce inflammation or allergens.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
The effects of Pholcodine usually take effect within 15-30 minutes after ingestion. The exact amount of time may vary depending on the individual, the amount of medication taken, and other factors.
Absorption
Pholcodine is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The onset of action usually occurs within 15-30 minutes.
Route of Elimination
The majority of Pholcodine is eliminated via the kidneys in the form of metabolites. A small amount is eliminated in the urine as unchanged drug.
Dosage
The recommended dose of Pholcodine is 5 mg – 10 mg taken every 4-6 hours, as needed. The maximum dose is 40 mg per day. A lower dose may be necessary in patients with liver or renal impairment.
Administration
Pholcodine can be taken orally with or without food. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor. Do not take more or less medication than prescribed.
Side Effects
The most commonly reported side effects of Pholcodine include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dry mouth. Rare but serious side effects include slow or shallow breathing, confusion, seizures, and severe dizziness or fainting.
Toxicity
Overdose of Pholcodine can be fatal. The symptoms of overdose include slow or shallow breathing, confusion, diminished reflexes, coma, and death.
Precautions
Pholcodine should not be taken for long periods of time due to the risk of dependence and addiction. Do not take this medication if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Do not take this medication with alcohol, as this can increase the risk of side effects and overdose. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking this medication.
Interactions
Pholcodine may interact with certain medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, sedatives, and narcotic pain relievers. Always inform your doctor of any medications you are taking, including vitamins, herbal remedies, and over-the-counter medications.
Disease Interactions
Pholcodine may worsen certain medical conditions including severe asthma, head injury, or liver or kidney disease. If you suffer from any of these conditions, consult your doctor before taking this medication.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions with Pholcodine may occur when taken with certain medications such as antihistamines, alcohol, and sedatives. Always inform your doctor of any medications you are taking, including vitamins and herbal remedies, before taking this medication.
Food Interactions
Pholcodine may interact with certain foods. Do not take Pholcodine with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Pregnancy Use
Pholcodine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. The effects of this medication on a developing fetus are unknown. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
Lactation Use
Pholcodine is not recommended for use while breastfeeding. Its effects are unknown on a nursing infant. If you are breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor before taking it.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of Pholcodine can be fatal. Symptoms of overdose may include slow or shallow breathing, confusion, seizures, and coma. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Contraindication
Pholcodine is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to any of its ingredients. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe asthma, head injury, or liver or kidney disease.
Use Direction
Pholcodine should be taken as directed by a doctor. Do not take more or less than the prescribed amount. Do not take it for longer than recommended or more frequently than prescribed. The recommended dose is 5 mg – 10 mg taken every 4-6 hours, as needed. The maximum dose is 40 mg per day.
Storage Condition
Pholcodine should be stored at room temperature away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Keep the medication in a closed container and out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of any unused medication according to directions.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Pholcodine is not known.
Half Life
The half-life of Pholcodine is approximately 0.5-1.75 hours.
Clearance
Pholcodine is metabolized by the liver and eliminated by the kidney. The clearance rate of the drug is not known.
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