The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has released a consultation on the potential reclassification of codeine linctus to a prescription-only medicine.

Codeine linctus has the active ingredient codeine phosphate and is used to relieve a dry cough. The consultation has been launched after considering multiple Yellow Card reports that codeine linctus is being used recreationally for its opioid effects, rather than for its intended use as a cough suppressant.

This medication is currently licensed as a pharmacy medicine. If reclassified as a prescription-only medicine, all strengths of codeine linctus will only be available upon presentation of a prescription.

The MHRA would like to hear from a broad range of individuals for their views on this potential change in classification.

The codeine linctus consultation is open until 15 August 2023.