Toseina Codeine Syrup 2 mg/ml

Toseina Codeine Syrup 2 mg/ml is a prescription-only antitussive medication indicated for the symptomatic treatment of dry, non-productive cough in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. Each milliliter of oral solution contains 2 mg of codeine phosphate hemihydrate, an opioid analgesic that acts directly on the cough center in the brain to suppress the cough reflex.

The recommended dosage for adults and adolescents over 12 years is 5 to 10 ml (equivalent to 10 to 20 mg of codeine) administered at minimum intervals of 6 hours. The syrup should not be used for more than 3 days consecutively; if cough persists, medical advice should be sought. A measuring cup is included with each bottle for accurate dosing.

Key Excipients
This product contains sorbitol (E-420) at 175 mg per ml, aspartame (E-951) at 2 mg per ml, sodium benzoate (E-211) at 2 mg per ml, and azorubine (E-122), a colorant that may cause allergic reactions, particularly in patients sensitive to acetylsalicylic acid. Patients with hereditary fructose intolerance or phenylketonuria should not use this medication.

Important Safety Considerations
This medication contains codeine and carries significant opioid-related risks. It is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in patients with respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD, and in individuals known to be CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizers (who convert codeine to morphine at a faster rate, increasing toxicity risk). The prevalence of ultra-rapid metabolizers varies by population, affecting up to 29% of African/Ethiopian individuals.

Classification
This product is classified as a prescription medicine (Rx) requiring a medical prescription and is subject to controlled substance regulations due to its opioid content. Use in adolescents aged 12–18 with compromised respiratory function is not recommended.