When the cough reflex does not bring relief due to the lack of sputum or is undesirable during various medical procedures, the question of suppressing it arises. What means are used for this?
These medications are called centrally acting antitussives, and they should be taken strictly as prescribed by the treating specialist. One of these medications is Codelac Neo (syrup). The instructions for use inform you about the rules for using this product, its effect on the body and possible undesirable effects.
Release forms and composition of the drug
The drug is produced in several dosage forms:
- tablets with gradual release of the active substance, 10, 20, 30 or 50 pcs. in cell blisters or in plastic jars;
- drops for internal use, 20 ml of colorless liquid with vanilla aroma in a glass bottle with a dropper in a cardboard package;
- syrup, a thick, colorless liquid with a vanilla odor, 100 or 200 ml in dark glass jars along with a dosing spoon.
Tinted glass protects the contents from sunlight throughout the shelf life. The product contains a number of active and additional substances.
Medicinal substance – butamirate citrate:
- tablets – 50 mg in 1 piece;
- drops – 100 mg in 20 ml;
- syrup – 7.5 mg in 5 ml.
Additional substances:
- tablets - lactose 0.241 g, hypromelose 0.085 g, talc 0.004 g, magnesium stearate 0.004 g, silicon dioxide 0.006 g, povidone 5 mg;
- drops – sorbitol 8.1 g, glycerin 5.8 g, ethanol 96% 60 mg, saccharin 23 mg, benzoic acid 23 mg, vanilla flavor 23 mg, sodium hydroxide solution 30% 10 mg, pure water up to 20 ml;
- syrup – sorbitol 2.025 g, glycerin 1.45 g, ethyl alcohol 96% 12.5 mg, saccharin 3 mg, benzoin 5.75 mg, vanilla flavor 3 mg, sodium hydroxide 30% – 1.55 mg, water sterile up to 5 ml.
Auxiliary components provide the necessary properties to each dosage form and ensure complete absorption of the active substance. Sodium butamirate is white crystals, easily soluble in water. The substance acts by analogy with codeine, which currently can only be purchased with a strict prescription form No. 107-1/u.
These forms are only available from qualified professionals in various medical professions. To present it to a pharmacy to purchase strong drugs, the form must be filled out in Latin and contain not the name of the drug, but its composition. A number of stamps from the doctor and the registry office of the medical institution are also required.
Previously, Codelac, a drug based on codeine, was relatively popular on the market. With the adoption of the law on the withdrawal of drugs with codeine from the free market, the new Codelac now contains less active substances and is distinguished by the prefix in the name Neo, that is, new.
Pharmacological properties
Codelac Neo instructions for use recommend for eliminating cough by direct action on the area in the brain responsible for the appearance of cough. The drug reduces cough, has an expectorant effect, dilates the bronchi, relieves inflammation, reduces the resistance of the pulmonary system and increases the degree of oxygen saturation of the blood.
Cough occurs as a result of activation of the innate reflex, which is necessary to remove foreign particles, mucus, dead tissue fragments and microorganisms from the bronchi. A cough signal is formed in the medulla oblongata. The receptors affected by the signal are located mainly on the posterior walls of the trachea and pharynx, as well as in the area where the trachea divides into 2 bronchi.
When these sensitive areas are irritated, a signal is sent to the brain. As a response, a cough begins.
Depending on the frequency and degree of irritation, attacks can vary in cough strength and duration. The impulse sent by the medulla oblongata reaches the diaphragm and intercostal muscles and stimulates their sharp contractions. During individual coughing, the glottis closes. Then, after muscle tension, the contents of the bronchi are forcefully thrown out.
Butamirate citrate blocks the response phase from the medulla oblongata. Thanks to this, it is possible to completely get rid of even severe, deep and debilitating coughing attacks.
pharmachologic effect
The pharmacotherapeutic effect of butamirate is a direct effect on the cough center of the brain, resulting in suppression of the cough reflex. In addition, according to the instructions for use, this active substance promotes:
- dilation of the bronchi (bronchodilation);
- improving oxygenation of organs (saturating them with oxygen);
- normalization of spirometric parameters (reduction of respiratory tract resistance);
All these effects ultimately lead to relief of respiratory function and the complete absence of the cough reflex.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
Absorption: immediately after internal administration of bumarate, citrate is absorbed in the intestines without residue for a short period of time. After taking 0.15 g, the highest content of the active metabolite in the blood is observed after 90 minutes and reaches 6.4 mg/ml.
Distribution and biotransformation: butamirate undergoes intensive transformation to produce 2-phenylbutyric acid and diethylamino-ethoxyethanol directly in the blood plasma. These substances also have an anti-cough effect and up to 95% combine with plasma proteins, due to which they are subsequently removed from the body for a long time.
With further use, accumulation does not occur. Elimination: half-life is approximately 6 hours. The main part is excreted by the kidneys.
Indications for use
Dry cough of various origins, including those that occur with whooping cough. The drug optimally suppresses the reflex before and after surgery and for bronchial examination.
During bronchoscopy, a special device in the form of an elastic rod with a controlled bend at the end is inserted into the lungs. Due to the specificity of the procedure, cough is an absolute contraindication. Therefore, it must be completely suppressed in advance.
After operations, a side effect in the form of a dry and hacking cough appears as a result of the residual effect of drugs for inducing a person into a state of anesthesia.
But for normal healing of damaged tissues, no high loads should be placed on them for the following reasons:
- during coughing, the muscles of the abdominal wall become excessively tense, and the internal organs themselves with fresh sutures experience intense shaking;
- this can lead to suture divergence and the need for repeated, emergency intervention.
Therefore, even in the absence of any manifestations in the form of a dry or wet cough after completion of the operation, prophylactic use of antitussives is recommended. Codelac Neo is one of the optimal medications for cough of any etiology.
One of the indications is whooping cough. This disease is characterized by the free spread and reproduction of microorganisms exclusively within the human body. Refers to dangerous diseases. There is a particular risk for children under 2 years of age.
Contraindications
Codelac Neo is prohibited for use for the treatment of cough in children under 3 years of age, in the first trimester of gestation, during breastfeeding and with high sensitivity to the substances included in the product. In the second and third trimesters, use is possible if the benefit to the woman is greater than the possible harm to the fetus.
Codelac Neo cannot be used in the 1st trimester of pregnancy.
Studies on the effect of butamirate on the unborn child during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy have not been conducted, therefore, in order to avoid negative consequences, it is recommended to resort to cough treatment with drugs with proven safety. Animal studies have not shown any negative effects on offspring. Therefore, Codelac Neo is considered conditionally safe for the fetus.
Strict restrictions for use in the first trimester are due to the fact that during this period the risk of causing harm to the child’s development is maximum. At the beginning of pregnancy, all the most important systems and organs of the fetus are formed. And even minor impacts can lead to the formation of malformations and deformities.
At what age can the drug be used?
Codelac Neo instructions for use recommend not to use for the following age categories:
- drops – infant age less than 60 days;
- syrup – children under 3 years of age;
- tablets – less than 12 years.
Butamirate citrate has an effect on particularly important parts of the nervous system. It contains components that can cause a widespread allergic reaction. To relieve symptoms in such cases, immediate hospitalization, intravenous infusions of medicinal solutions and the use of powerful adsorbents are required.
Implementing the entire scheme in practice can be very difficult not only for the child, but also for the mother. Therefore, you should not take risks and try to independently treat a small baby without a doctor’s prescription. At this age, only mild illnesses can be treated at home, with the mother having full confidence in her own competence in choosing medications.
Review Reviews
Analyzing reviews of Codelac Neo in the form of syrup, of course, is not enough to decide whether to take this cough medicine.
But based on reviews, you can summarize and protect yourself from common mistakes made by adults. For example, some mothers bombard with questions about what can be simply learned from the instructions - what kind of cough reflex does this syrup affect, is it suitable for children, and so on.
To avoid unnecessary questions, it is best to first read the official instructions and consult a doctor.
Another common mistake is when they buy a drug in a dosage form that is not the one prescribed by the doctor. For example, we bought tablets in a hurry, and then it turned out that this drug in tablets cannot be taken until the age of 18. Or you bought syrup for a 3-month-old baby, and such children need drops.
Those who used the medication on the recommendation of a doctor and taking into account the instructions for use call the syrup an effective and fast-acting cough remedy (it helped on the 2-3rd day of treatment).
And only a few reviews about Codelac Neo for children in the form of syrup are negative - parents write that the cough has gotten worse and that the child is choking. If so, then obviously the syrup was not used for its intended purpose; perhaps it was used for a wet cough.
Instructions for use for children, dosage of the drug
Codelac Neo, recommended for children, is available in liquid form: drops or syrup. The instructions for use recommend certain doses and dosage regimens depending on the patient’s age group and the dosage form of the drug. If necessary, they can be replaced with each other, taking into account the age of the patient and revising the amount recommended for a single dose.
Pills
Codelac Neo instructions for use restrict use to persons under 18 years of age. The possibility of treatment with tablets should be considered individually by the attending physician, depending on the severity of symptoms and indications. Tablet forms are taken orally without preliminary crushing.
The shell is intended for dissolution in the intestines under conditions of a slightly alkaline environment.
The main function of gastric juice is to digest food; for medications, it is to change the chemical structure. The release of active substances in the stomach will lead to their disintegration and further lack of therapeutic effect. Therefore, film-coated tablets should not be divided or bitten before swallowing.
A more acidic environment in the stomach prevents premature release of the active substance, which avoids its destruction before entering the gastrointestinal tract. Absorption of drugs occurs in the small intestine. To facilitate the process of penetration into the vascular network, the tablets consist of pressed fine powder.
This ensures a high area of contact of the active substance with the walls of the intestinal tract. Codelac Neo tablets are distinguished by a modified release, which results in layer-by-layer dissolution and a longer therapeutic effect.
This is achieved by absorbing small portions of the dose taken over a long period of time. The modified structure of the tablet ensures that the concentration of the medicinal substance is maintained at a constant level between individual tablet doses.
Drops
The drops are intended for the treatment of children aged 2 months and older.
Reception and dosage regimens:
- 2-12 months – 10 pieces 4 times a day;
- 1-3 years – 15 pieces 4 times a day;
- from 3 years – 25 pieces 4 times a day.
The drops are quickly and completely absorbed after oral administration. This ensures a rapid onset of the therapeutic effect and soon after starting to use the drops, a significant improvement in the patient’s condition is noted. The half-life of the drops is 6 hours. Metabolic products are mainly excreted by the kidneys.
Before use in children under 2 years of age, it is advisable to consult a supervising pediatrician. If the cough persists for more than 5 days, the issue of further use should be discussed with a specialist. He will be able to assess the advisability of treatment with the same drug and the need to prescribe additional medications for a faster recovery.
Syrup
Codelac Neo instructions for use recommend taking it before meals with clean, cool water.
Dosages and number of doses per day:
- 3-6 years – 5 ml 3 times;
- 6-12 years – 10 ml 3 times;
- over 12 years old – 15 ml 3 times.
For accurate dosing, use the measuring device included in the kit. You need to pour the syrup until the level of the mark is reached without unnecessary influx of the medicinal solution.
Features of treatment for children
For the treatment of children under 3 years of age, another dosage form of the drug Codelac is provided - drops. They can be given to children from 2 months in the dosage prescribed by the doctor or indicated in the instructions for use.
When using Codelac Neo syrup for children over 3 years of age, special attention should be paid to information about adverse reactions. The syrup in question has a small list of them and all of them are from the category of rare occurrences. However, if the recommendations for use are not followed, an overdose and pronounced manifestation of undesirable effects are possible:
- allergic manifestations, urticaria;
- dyspepsia;
- dizziness, drowsiness.
If these signs are detected, you should immediately stop using the syrup and go to the doctor.
Side effects
From the central nervous system, dizziness may occur, which disappears after completion of the course of treatment or when the daily dosage is adjusted. On the part of digestion - loose stools, nausea of varying degrees of severity.
In case of severe disorders of digestive functions, a temporary transition to dense foods without excessive amounts of dietary fiber is recommended. For nutrition, you should choose boiled or stewed protein products in combination with cereals, potatoes and other products made from wheat flour.
Overdose
If the recommended doses are significantly exceeded, vomiting, dizziness, nausea, a drop in blood pressure and impaired spatial coordination may occur.
For treatment, you should take salt-based laxatives, adsorbents and additional medications depending on the symptoms.
special instructions
As a sweetener, Codelac Neo contains sodium saccharinate and sorbitol, so it is approved for use in the treatment of patients suffering from diabetes. There is a risk of drug dependence for the active substance.
The drug should be used with extreme caution in people with diseases of the hepatic system, a tendency to alcoholism, patients with epilepsy and in patients with brain dysfunction.
During the treatment period, it is recommended to refrain from driving vehicles and other activities that require high reaction speed and increased attention due to the risk of intense dizziness.
Codelac Neo during pregnancy
Women in an “interesting situation” are not prescribed this medication, since there is no reliable information about the effects of butamirate citrate on the intrauterine development of the fetus. It is recommended to refrain from taking Codelac Neo while breastfeeding. Otherwise, it is recommended to transfer the child to adapted formulas and temporarily stop lactation.
Drug interactions
No drug incompatibilities have been described for Codelac Neo. During the treatment period, you should avoid drinking alcohol and taking other drugs that have a depressing effect on the central nervous system - sedatives, hypnotics, antipsychotics and tranquilizers.
Due to the fact that butamirate actively inhibits the functions of the cough center, it is prohibited to combine Codelac Neo with other anti-cough drugs that actively stimulate the formation of sputum. Neglect of this condition can lead to the accumulation of liquid contents in the lungs, the development of bronchial spasm and the spread of infection to the lower parts of the lung tissue.
Directions for use and dosage
The doctor prescribes Codelac Neo drops and syrup for children, and tablets for oral administration for adults. The medication should be taken as a full course, and it is important not to violate the dosage prescribed in the instructions. On average, a course of home treatment lasts 5–7 days and can be adjusted. The release form and daily dosage are determined by the doctor on an individual basis.
Syrup Codelac Neo
This release form is intended for oral administration. The syrup should be drunk in concentrated form, without diluting with water, always before eating. Recommended dosages depend on the patient's age:
Patient age, years | Single dose, ml | Number of receptions, times | A course of treatment |
3–6 | 5 | 3 | determined individually, but no more than 5 days |
6–12 | 10 | 3 | |
12–18 | 15 | 3 | |
from 18 and older | 15 | 4 |
Drops
The specified release form of the medicine Codelac Neo is also intended for oral use in a full course. The age category of patients is children from 2 months and older. Recommended dosage of drops for dry cough:
Child's age, years | Single dose, drops | Number of receptions, times | Course of treatment, days |
2–12 | 10 | 4 | determined individually |
1–3 | 15 | 4 | |
3–6 | 25 | 4 |
Analogs
If necessary, Codelac Neo can be replaced with other drugs containing the same substance. They differ in manufacturers, prices, concentrations and compositions of auxiliary components.
A few of the most common ones stand out:
- Sinekod - the most famous analogue with a higher cost per bottle. Available in the form of 20 ml drops, 100 and 200 ml syrups. Contains similar concentrations of the active substance. Does not have tablet form.
- Omnitus - is commercially presented in the form of tablets of 20 mg or 50 mg, 10 pieces per package, and in the form of syrup containing the active substance butamirate 0.8 mg per 1 ml. 1 bottle contains 200 ml of syrup and is packaged in a cardboard box along with instructions for use and a dosing device. It has a more affordable price.
- Panatus - the drug is available in the form of tablets of 20 mg, 10 pieces per package, and in the form of Forte syrup containing 7.5 mg of active ingredient per 5 ml. 1 bottle of 200 ml along with a dosing spoon and instructions is placed in a cardboard package.
All analogues act with almost the same efficiency and can easily replace each other even during the treatment process.
Composition of Codelac Neo syrup
The basic component of Codelac Neo syrup is butamirate citrate. This substance, unlike codeine, which is similar in action, is not an opium alkaloid either in the pharmacological or chemical sense, and does not cause such effects as addiction or dependence. It is part of such drugs as Sinekod, Panatus, Omnitus.
In addition to the active ingredient, Codelac Neo syrup contains additional substances that help both take and absorb this medicine. Among them, consumers may be interested in:
- ethanol (ethyl alcohol 95%);
- sugar substitute sorbitol (food additive E420);
- glycerol;
- benzoic acid (flavor E210).
Vanillin gives the substance a flavor tint. The instructions for use describe Codelac Neo (syrup) as a liquid without a specific color with a vanilla aroma.
Terms, conditions of sale and storage
Codelac Neo is dispensed from pharmacies without a prescription from a specialist. The shelf life does not depend on the form of release of the drug and is 5 years after the date of manufacture. After the expiration date, it is prohibited to accept funds. Storage conditions are standard - at an ambient temperature of no more than 25°C without direct sunlight.
It is not advisable to store in the refrigerator, since excessively low temperatures will increase the thickness of the syrup and make it difficult to accurately dose. Tablets and drops can be stored in the cold without loss of therapeutic agents, if this is convenient for the consumer.
Price in pharmacies in Moscow, St. Petersburg, regions
Minimum price in the regions from 150 rubles. for 100 ml. In Moscow, prices start from 170 rubles. for a bottle of similar volume. In St. Petersburg the cost is slightly lower - from 160 rubles. Maximum prices can be found in central pharmacies of large chains.
Thus, the prices are quite reasonable, considering the relief the drug will bring to a sick person suffering from a dry cough. And in the postoperative periods, all patients should avoid any stress for quick and complete healing of the sutures.
Codelac Neo is a worthy drug for cough suppression in many situations. Use according to the instructions will allow you to quickly normalize your condition without taking powerful and often dangerous drugs.
Article design: Oleg Lozinsky
Price for Codelac Neo
The average cost of 100 ml syrup in Moscow pharmacies is 150 rubles. You can save money when ordering medicine online. The final price depends on the place of purchase, release form, packaging configuration:
Name of Moscow pharmacies | Price of tablets 50 mg No. 10, rubles |
Online pharmacy "Dialogue" | 165 |
Dialogue | 175 |
Pharmacy chain "36.6" | 185 |
Neopharm | 200 |
ElixirPharm | 245 |