Manordine Cough Linctus (Pholcodine)

Manordine Cough Linctus contains pholcodine, an opioid antitussive that acts on the central cough pathway. It is indicated for:

• Dry (non‑productive) cough: reduces cough frequency and intensity.
• Cough associated with upper‑respiratory‑tract infections: provides symptomatic relief.
• Cough due to minor throat irritation: lessens the urge to cough.

• Pholcodine acts centrally by binding to opioid receptors in the medulla, decreasing the sensitivity of the cough centre to peripheral stimuli. This inhibition reduces the cough reflex without producing significant analgesia, allowing patients to experience fewer cough episodes while maintaining normal respiratory function.

Pholcodine may cause a range of adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
• Drowsiness: increased sleepiness.
• Dry mouth: reduced salivation.
• Constipation: slowed intestinal transit.
• Headache: mild cranial discomfort.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Respiratory depression: slowed breathing, especially with overdose.
• Hepatotoxicity: abnormal liver enzymes.
• Cardiac arrhythmia: irregular heartbeat.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: severe skin blistering.
• Seizures: rare neurologic events.

Before using Manordine Cough Linctus, consider the following precautions:

• Hypersensitivity: avoid if known allergy to pholcodine or other opioids.
• Respiratory disorders: use with caution in asthma or COPD patients.
• Liver impairment: monitor liver function in patients with hepatic disease.
• Concomitant CNS depressants: limit combined use with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or antihistamines.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

Pholcodine can interact with several medicines.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• MAO inhibitors: risk of severe CNS depression.
• Other opioid antitussives: additive respiratory depression.
• Central nervous system depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates): enhanced sedative effect.
• Alcohol: increased drowsiness and respiratory risk.
• CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., quinidine): may raise pholcodine plasma levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- Antihistamines: may potentiate drowsiness.

• Anticholinergic agents: could worsen dry mouth.
• Certain antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs): monitor for serotonin syndrome signs.
• Herbal supplements (e.g., St. John’s wort): may affect metabolism.
• NSAIDs: watch for gastrointestinal irritation.