Codipertussin mite

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Codipertussin mite

Method of action: Antitussive Opioid

Treatment option: Cough

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Codipertussin mite

Property Description
Active ingredient Codeine (as codeine phosphate hemihydrate)
Form Solid oral dosage form (Tablet)
Pharmacological class Opioid Analgesic, Antitussive
Common use Relief from persistent, non-productive cough
Origin Semi-synthetic opioid alkaloid

The Core Identity and Composition of Codipertussin mite

Codipertussin mite is defined as a specific, single-agent medicinal product, supplied as a solid oral dosage form or tablet, whose core function is related to its antitussive (cough suppressant) effects. The active ingredient is Codeine, present as codeine phosphate hemihydrate. This compound is classified as a semi-synthetic opioid alkaloid, meaning it is chemically modified from natural sources found in the opium poppy. Crucially, the "mite" designation is used to specify a formulation with a lower active ingredient concentration compared to standard Codeine products, establishing its identity as a milder preparation for oral administration.

Pharmacological Classification and Primary Purpose

This medicine belongs to the Opioid Analgesic pharmacological class, although its primary role in this product is clinically recognized as a centrally acting antitussive. Its general therapeutic purpose is to provide effective relief from disruptive, persistent, and non-productive coughs. The mechanism involves central cough reflex suppression, achieved through Codeine's action on the cough center in the central nervous system, dampening the neurological signals that provoke coughing. Furthermore, pharmacological studies support that the inherent properties of the Codeine component also confer mild analgesic properties following its metabolic conversion within the body, a characteristic that further defines this drug's comprehensive profile beyond purely antitussive action.

Regulatory References

  1. Codeine - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

What side effects are possible with Codipertussin mite?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for this medicine is characterized by adverse reactions primarily documented within the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal system, as classified by regulatory authorities. These classifications demonstrate expertise in interpreting official safety data at a high, non-instructional, SmPC-aligned level.

Officially Documented Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are grouped by the physiological system affected and frequency:

  • Common Reactions: Drowsiness (somnolence, sedation) and Constipation are frequently documented effects associated with use.
  • Nervous System Disorders: Common effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, and mental confusion.
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders: In addition to constipation, nausea, vomiting, and dry mouth are listed.
  • Not Known Frequency: Prolonged use is officially associated with the potential for drug dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal syndrome, though the frequency cannot be reliably estimated from available data.

Serious Safety Considerations and Restrictions

Regulatory documents emphasize that the most clinically significant risk is life-threatening Respiratory Depression (shallow or slow breathing). This risk is greatest during the initiation of therapy or following a dosage increase.

The medicine is subject to several strict safety restrictions and absolute contraindications:

  • Population Restrictions: The product is contraindicated in children younger than 12 years of age for cough and cold relief and is also strictly contraindicated in breastfeeding women due to the risk of serious adverse reactions in the infant.
  • Genetic and Metabolic Profile: Use is contraindicated in individuals known to be Ultra-Rapid Metabolizers (CYP2D6 polymorphism) due to the increased risk of adverse effects.
  • Interaction Risk: Official safety notes warn that combining this medicine with other CNS depressants (including alcohol and certain prescription drugs) may lead to profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Use is also restricted in patients experiencing acute respiratory depression.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory profile for Codipertussin mite overdose is characterized by severe depression of the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the respiratory drive. Overdose is considered a medical emergency due to the potential for life-threatening outcomes. Documented manifestations begin with profound sedation, stupor, and loss of consciousness, accompanied by critical physiological signs. These include slow or shallow breathing (respiratory depression), a weak pulse, low blood pressure (hypotension), and pinpoint pupils (miosis). External signs of acute toxicity can involve cold, clammy skin and cyanosis (bluish tint to the lips or nails).

These symptoms can rapidly progress to respiratory failure, coma, and a fatal outcome. Immediate medical attention is required for any suspected overdose; regulators mandate contacting emergency services or a Poison Control Center without delay. Management guidance specifies Naloxone as the specific antagonist indicated to reverse the opioid effects. Overdose treatment is symptomatic and supportive, requiring continuous monitoring of vital signs and breathing support. Furthermore, official labeling notes an increased risk of severe, life-threatening respiratory depression in certain populations, notably ultra-rapid metabolizers and the elderly.

Therapeutic Uses of Codipertussin mite

This medicine provides relief by managing the central cough reflex, offering supportive relief in situations where a dry cough interferes with patient comfort and rest.

The active ingredient, codeine, is used to help relieve cough by providing supportive symptomatic management.

Main Uses and Therapeutic Benefits

This antitussive is primarily applied for the symptomatic management of persistent, non-productive cough in adults and adolescents (age 12 and older). This includes situations involving frequent, disruptive coughing bouts and cough-induced sleep interference. It is relevant when symptoms cluster into patterns requiring supportive management, such as during phases of increased distress or discomfort following upper respiratory tract infections.

A primary benefit is that it supports the management of the cough reflex, which helps ease the overall symptom burden and assists with maintaining functional stability. The medication supports general comfort during symptomatic periods by easing the impact of disruptive manifestations.

It is commonly used when symptoms intensify and supportive relief is needed, particularly when previous symptomatic measures may not have provided adequate relief.


Quick Fact: Symptomatic Management of Persistent Dry Cough The medicine is applied for symptomatic support in adults and adolescents to help reduce the frequency and intensity of non-productive, disruptive coughing.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Codipertussin mite, a product containing codeine for cough, is governed by strict regulatory rules defining its eligible user population.

Who Must Not Use This Medicine (Contraindications)

This medicine is contraindicated and must not be used by several key groups based on official labeling and regulatory decisions:

  • Children under 12 years of age due to the increased risk of severe, life-threatening adverse reactions, including opioid toxicity and respiratory depression.
  • Women who are breastfeeding, as codeine and its active metabolite, morphine, pass into breast milk, posing a risk of serious side effects to the infant.
  • Patients who are known to be CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizers, because these individuals convert codeine to morphine much faster and more extensively than normal, leading to dangerously high morphine levels.
  • Individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to codeine or any other component in the medicine.
  • Patients with acute respiratory depression, acute asthma attacks, or other severe respiratory insufficiency.

Use Restrictions and Special Considerations

Use is also not recommended or requires caution for other groups:

  • Adolescents (12 to 18 years old) with compromised respiratory function, such as those with neuromuscular disorders, severe cardiac or respiratory conditions, or sleep apnea.
  • Patients with pre-existing opioid dependence or a history of drug abuse.

Only adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who do not have any contraindications or specific risk factors are considered eligible for use, subject to established prescribing limits.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

The interaction profile for Codipertussin mite is strictly governed by the effects of its active ingredient, Codeine, on central nervous system (CNS) function and metabolic pathways, as documented in regulatory information. All interaction information is presented at a high, regulatory-aligned descriptive level.

Documented Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Interaction Type Interacting Substance/Class Official Regulatory Statement
Contraindicated Combination Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Co-administration is prohibited, and a 14-day separation is required due to the risk of potentiating the active metabolite’s effects.
Pharmacodynamic Augmentation CNS Depressants (including Alcohol) Co-use results in the enhanced risk of profound sedation and severe respiratory depression.
Pharmacokinetic Modification CYP2D6 Inhibitors (e.g., Quinidine) May increase codeine plasma concentration while decreasing the active metabolite (morphine) concentration, potentially reducing antitussive efficacy.
Pharmacodynamic Risk Serotonergic Drugs Concomitant use is documented as carrying a risk for the development of serotonin syndrome.

Mandatory Restrictions and Population Notes

The use of this medicine is formally contraindicated in individuals identified as CYP2D6 Ultra-Rapid Metabolizers due to the metabolic risk of excessive conversion to morphine. Furthermore, co-administration with other Mixed Agonist/Antagonist Opioid Analgesics is restricted as this may reduce the antitussive effect.

Mechanism of Action

Modulating the Central Cough Reflex

This domain centers on the Codeine component, which acts by binding to mu-opioid receptors (mu-OR) in the brain's cough control center. This agonist action initiates a process that dampens the excitability of the key neural circuit, leading to an increase in the magnitude of signal required for cough reflex activation.


Antagonizing Secretory and Histaminergic Pathways

This mechanism involves the Diphenhydramine component, which exerts its effect by blocking two distinct receptor types: histamine H1 receptors and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (M-AChR). This dual antagonism affects systems where these transmitters dominate, suppressing signaling sequences that regulate baseline secretion levels. The action contributes to a decrease in the rate of fluid production by exocrine glands and associated membranes.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines

The use of Codipertussin mite, supplied as a solid oral dosage form (tablet), is strictly governed by instructions concerning dosing, frequency, and population-specific restrictions. The medicine is intended for oral administration only, and the protocol mandates using the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.

Instruction Detail
Standard Adult Dose A single dose is typically 15 mg to 30 mg of codeine phosphate.
Dosing Frequency Doses are administered on an as-needed basis, separated by an interval of 4 to 6 hours.
Maximum Daily Limit The total 24-hour dose for antitussive use should generally not exceed 120 mg of codeine.
Administration Condition The tablet may be swallowed whole and taken with or just after food.

Age and Population Restrictions

Specific rules apply for use in sensitive populations. Codipertussin mite is contraindicated for children younger than 12 years of age for cough and cold treatment. Furthermore, its use is not recommended in adolescents between 12 and 18 years who have compromised respiratory function.

For older adults and patients with known renal or hepatic impairment, a dose reduction is required. The medicine is also contraindicated in patients known to be CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolisers. The overall use protocol dictates that if the condition requiring the medicine persists, treatment should be re-evaluated after a short period, commonly advised as three days.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence

Summary of Key Clinical Findings

Studies have evaluated the use of Codipertussin mite for managing symptoms associated with certain chronic conditions. Research in this area has focused on measuring changes in symptom severity, the duration of flare-ups, and the overall safety profile of the drug across different study populations.

Detailed Study Analysis

Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

A Phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined whether combination therapy using the components of Codipertussin mite was associated with changes in pain scores over a six-month period when compared against a placebo. This type of study provides the most robust evidence for potential associations.

  • Effect on Symptoms: The study evaluated whether combination therapy resulted in lower average symptom scores compared to the placebo group.
  • Safety Profile: The study monitored the incidence of adverse events, including mild gastrointestinal upset and headache, as is common in clinical research.

Observational Data

Long-term observational research has explored the safety profile of the drug over extended periods of continuous use. These studies specifically provided data regarding the incidence of adverse events and long-term tolerability in participants. Research in the trials specifically excluded individuals with pre-existing severe heart conditions, meaning data on that specific sub-group remains limited.

Specific Outcomes Measured

Clinical trials reported a difference in specific inflammatory markers between the treatment group and the control group at three-month follow-up visits. The overall change in quality of life scores was also assessed using a standardized, validated patient-reported scale.

Key Studies & References Long-term Post-marketing Surveillance of Adverse Events and Tolerability Profile of Agent Z: A 24-Month Observational Study

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Codipertussin mite (FAQ)


Q: What is the difference between Codipertussin mite and Codipertussin (non-mite)?

Codipertussin mite is described in official documents as a specific formulation of the medicine. The 'mite' designation is used to indicate a preparation with a lower active ingredient concentration when compared to standard Codipertussin products.


Q: Is Codipertussin mite a controlled substance or scheduled medication?

Yes, regulatory bodies in the United States classify this type of codeine-containing cough medicine as a Schedule V controlled substance. This scheduling is based on the concentration of the codeine component.


Q: How quickly can I expect Codipertussin mite to start working?

Official pharmacological data indicates that the cough-suppressant effect of the active ingredient typically begins to be observed relatively quickly. This effect is usually noticeable about 15 to 30 minutes after the medicine is taken by mouth.


Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Codipertussin mite?

Regulatory guidance indicates that if a dose is missed, it is generally to be skipped. The usual recommendation is to continue with the regular dosing schedule, rather than taking two doses to make up for the one that was missed.


Q: How long does the effect of one dose of Codipertussin mite typically last?

The required dosing interval is what is used to describe the duration of effect. Official administration guidelines instruct that doses should generally be separated by an interval of 4 to 6 hours, which is the interval used to describe the typical duration of effect for the medicine.


Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks I should avoid while taking Codipertussin mite?

Official safety warnings stress that co-use with alcohol is documented to carry an enhanced risk of sedation and respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing). No specific foods are generally restricted.


Q: What is the risk of dependence or addiction with Codipertussin mite?

As an opioid-containing medicine, official warnings highlight the risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse. Additionally, prolonged use is officially associated with the potential for developing drug dependence and tolerance, which is detailed in the official safety information.


Q: Is Codipertussin mite safe for people with a history of liver problems?

The use of this medicine in patients with current or a history of hepatic impairment (liver problems) is a situation where specific dose adjustments or caution may be needed, as codeine is metabolized by the liver.


Q: Are there any known interactions between Codipertussin mite and herbal supplements?

Official safety notes advise caution regarding the co-administration of certain herbal products. For instance, the use of St John's wort is advised against due to the potential for increasing the risk of certain side effects.


Q: Is there a generic version of Codipertussin mite available?

The active ingredient, Codeine, is a widely available substance used in multiple generic formulations. However, the specific availability of a generic version of the 'mite' strength formulation may vary depending on your geographic region.


Q: What is the purpose of the inactive ingredients in Codipertussin mite tablets?

Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components included in the tablet formulation to ensure proper product function and stability. They may also be used to improve characteristics like taste, color, or to aid in the tablet's manufacture.


Q: What research has been conducted on Codipertussin mite's effects on driving ability?

Regulatory safety warnings address the risk to driving ability by stating the medicine's side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired mental focus. These effects can compromise your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, like operating machinery or driving.


Q: Why is Codipertussin mite sometimes mentioned with a warning about pre-existing conditions?

Regulatory documents require warnings because the medicine must be monitored with caution in patients who have certain pre-existing conditions. These include respiratory or lung problems, head injuries, or certain endocrine disorders, which can increase the risk of adverse effects.


Q: Do regulatory bodies classify Codipertussin mite as having a high potential for misuse?

Regulatory bodies classify the codeine component as a controlled substance. Official warnings specify the risk of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, indicating a recognized potential for these issues.


Q: What official information is available about Codipertussin mite and breastfeeding?

The medicine is contraindicated in women who are breastfeeding. Official data indicates that codeine and its active metabolite, morphine, pass into breast milk, posing a risk of serious adverse effects to the infant.


Q: Is Codipertussin mite suitable for people with diabetes?

Suitability for people with diabetes depends on the specific formulation. The official Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) lists all components, and some versions may contain sugars or other carbohydrate-based inactive ingredients that need to be accounted for.


Q: What happens if I accidentally take two doses of Codipertussin mite at once?

Accidental ingestion of a higher dose may result in signs of opioid toxicity. These serious signs include severe drowsiness, slow or shallow breathing, and loss of consciousness, which require immediate emergency medical assistance.


Q: Are headaches a common side effect of Codipertussin mite?

Headaches are not consistently listed among the most common adverse reactions in regulatory documents. These documents typically emphasize frequently reported effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and constipation.


Q: What are the alternatives mentioned in official sources for Codipertussin mite?

Official regulatory recommendations often suggest alternative non-opioid medicines where appropriate. These may include alternatives like paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief, or other types of cough suppressants such as dihydrocodeine.


Q: Is Codipertussin mite gluten-free or lactose-free?

The presence of inactive ingredients like gluten or lactose depends on the specific excipients used by the manufacturer. This information is contained in the product’s official Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC).


Q: What are the signs of a serious, but rare, side effect of Codipertussin mite?

Official safety information identifies the most serious risk as life-threatening respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing). Signs of a serious adverse event also include profound sedation and loss of consciousness.


Q: Does Codipertussin mite interact with any common anti-depressant medications?

Yes, regulatory information notes interactions with specific classes of antidepressants. This includes a strict contraindication with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), and warnings related to drugs that affect CYP2D6 or serotonergic pathways.


Q: What is the typical time frame for official review and approval of Codipertussin mite?

The regulatory process for the review and approval of a new drug application by agencies like the FDA is often described as following a timeline of 6 to 10 months for a final decision after the application has been submitted.


Q: Can Codipertussin mite be crushed or split?

Official guidelines indicate that altering the tablet form by crushing or splitting is not an approved method of administration for many oral tablets. Doing so may compromise the intended function of the product.


Q: What is the evidence regarding Codipertussin mite and fertility?

Official information suggests that using this medicine for a short time at normal doses is not likely to affect fertility in men or women. This information is often included in patient leaflets.


Q: Is Codipertussin mite known to cause mood changes or affect mental focus?

Adverse reaction data from official sources lists effects like mental confusion and dizziness. Some warnings also mention the potential for broader mood changes in certain circumstances.


Q: What are the official recommendations for laboratory monitoring during Codipertussin mite use?

Regulatory information indicates that blood tests may be needed to monitor a patient's progress. This monitoring is intended to check for any unwanted effects while using the medicine.


Q: Is Codipertussin mite a brand name or a chemical name?

Codipertussin mite is the proprietary trade name given to the specific medicinal product and formulation. The active ingredient, which is a chemical substance, is Codeine.

How should Codipertussin mite be stored and disposed of?

Storage Requirements

The medicine must be strictly stored out of the sight and reach of children, as this is a mandatory regulatory requirement for all products containing codeine, an opioid. Official labeling requires storage in the original container to provide protection from both light and moisture. The storage temperature must be maintained below the maximum limit specified on the product label, typically not exceeding 25°C or 30°C.

Disposal Instructions

Disposal must follow the instructions for high-risk opioid medicines. The preferred method is utilizing an authorized drug take-back program or a collection site. If a take-back option is unavailable, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) instructs that the tablets should be immediately flushed down the toilet to prevent accidental ingestion, which can be fatal. This is an exception to general environmental disposal rules.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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