Pholcodine
Pholcodine is a narcotic derivative related to codeine but having little analgesic activity. Pholcodine is mainly used for cough suppression.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Aminoalkylether.
It belongs to OPIATE agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Antitussives .
Molecular Weight: 416.5 · pKa: 8.0, 9.3 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 50 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 3 · Non-proprietary name: Pholcodine.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Pholcodine has an oral bioavailability is 100%.
Distribution: Pholcodine has a volume of distribution is 30-49 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 23.5%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 32-43 hr, renal excretion is 26.2%.
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Indications
Pholcodine is primarily indicated in conditions like Anxiety, Dry cough.
Pholcodine is also indicated for secondary conditions like Primary ovarian cancer.
Contraindications
None recorded.
Dosage
Pholcodine 's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 7.5 mg | 7.5 mg | Every 8h | PO | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0.175 mg/kg | 0.175 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0.1 mg/kg | 0.1 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Pholcodine in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Biliary colic , Psychological dependence, Epigastric distress .
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Pholcodine are Drowsiness, Respiratory depression, Ataxia, Restlessness .
Pholcodine is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Constipation , Nausea and vomiting.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Pholcodine may interfere in the diagnosis of Radioimmunoassay of Opiates in Urine .
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Multi-Ingredient Combinations
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.25.2.3 — Cough sedatives