Recommendations on the use of codeine-containing products for treatment of pain and relief of cough and cold in children and adolescents

HSA, in consultation with its Medicines Advisory Committee, has issued a Dear Healthcare Professional Letter to update healthcare professionals on the recommendations on the use of codeine-containing products for the treatment of pain and the relief of cough and cold in children and adolescents. These recommendations have been made following concerns raised internationally on reports of deaths and severe respiratory depression in young children who received codeine following tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy for obstructive sleep apnoea. HSA’s benefit-risk assessment considered the current available scientific evidence, local adverse event reports and the input of local clinical experts. It was concluded that the benefit-risk profile of codeine remains favourable for restricted indications involving cough suppression and the short-term treatment of acute moderate pain in children 12 years old and above when administered at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. Please refer to the letter for details.