Codeine Phosphate 30mg tablets are a prescription-only opioid medication used to treat moderate to severe pain when other painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen are not effective. It may also be prescribed to treat diarrhoea or dry, persistent cough in certain cases. As a controlled drug in the UK, it should only be used under medical supervision due to its potential for dependence and side effects.
What Are Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets Used For?
Moderate to severe pain (e.g., post-surgical, musculoskeletal, injury-related)
Pain relief when paracetamol or NSAIDs are not sufficient
Chronic cough (off-label, short-term use)
Diarrhoea (in specific cases, under medical advice)
How to Take Codeine Phosphate 30mg
Adults: Usually 15–60mg every 4–6 hours as needed
Maximum daily dose: Not to exceed 240mg
Always follow your doctor’s instructions. Never take more than prescribed, especially because of the addiction risk.
Possible Side Effects
Drowsiness or dizziness
Constipation
Nausea or vomiting
Headache
Difficulty urinating
Respiratory depression (at high doses or with misuse)
⚠️ Warning: Codeine can be habit-forming. Long-term use should be carefully monitored by a healthcare provider.
Is It Legal to Buy Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets Online in the UK?
✅ Yes, with a valid prescription.
Codeine phosphate is a Class B controlled Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets-only medicine (POM) in the UK. You can legally buy it online only if:
You have a valid UK prescription, or
You complete an online consultation with a registered UK pharmacy that provides a prescription after approval
⚠️ Avoid buying from unregulated websites, as this is illegal and dangerous. Counterfeit codeine tablets are common on the black market and may contain harmful ingredients.
How to Buy Codeine Phosphate 30mg Online Safely
Use a GPhC-registered online pharmacy
Complete a medical questionnaire or submit your prescription
Ensure discreet, tracked delivery and access to professional advice
Summary
Name: Codeine Phosphate 30mg Tablets
Type: Prescription-only opioid painkiller
Use: For moderate to severe pain, cough, or diarrhoea (under doctor’s guidance)
Risk: Potential for dependence, overdose, and side effects if misused
Legal Purchase: Only through registered UK pharmacies with a prescription