Actavis Promethazine Codeine Cough Syrup Ingredients

Actavis Promethazine Codeine Cough Syrup Ingredients, Actavis Promethazine Codeine cough syrup is one of the most well-known prescription medications used to treat symptoms like coughing, runny nose, and sneezing caused by allergies or the common cold. Although it has garnered notoriety in pop culture due to misuse, understanding the ingredients and their intended medical purposes is essential for responsible use and awareness.

What Is Actavis Promethazine Codeine Cough Syrup?

Actavis is a pharmaceutical brand that was known for producing a specific formulation of promethazine with codeine syrup. The syrup was widely prescribed for its strong cough suppressant and antihistamine properties. However, due to increasing misuse and recreational abuse, especially in the form known as “lean” or “purple drank,” Actavis discontinued the product. Still, its composition remains a point of interest for many.

Actavis Promethazine Codeine Cough Syrup Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients that were found in Actavis Promethazine Codeine cough syrup:

1. Promethazine Hydrochloride

• Type: Antihistamine
• Purpose: Promethazine helps reduce allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. It also has sedative properties, contributing to drowsiness.
• How it works: It blocks histamine receptors in the body, which are responsible for allergic reactions.

2. Codeine Phosphate

• Type: Narcotic (Opioid) Cough Suppressant
• Purpose: Codeine works directly on the brain’s cough center to suppress coughing. It also acts as a mild pain reliever.
• Warning: Codeine is habit-forming and can lead to dependence if not used properly. It’s one of the reasons the syrup was eventually pulled from the market.

3. Alcohol

• Purpose: Used as a solvent and preservative in many liquid medications.
• Effect: Enhances the sedative effects of promethazine and codeine, which can be dangerous if misused.

4. Sucrose and Saccharin Sodium

• Type: Sweeteners
• Purpose: Improve the taste of the syrup, especially because both promethazine and codeine can have a bitter taste.

5. FD&C Red No. 40

• Type: Coloring Agent
• Purpose: Gives the syrup its distinctive reddish-purple color.

6. Purified Water and Flavoring Agents

• Purpose: Create a liquid suspension and make the syrup more palatable.

Safety and Misuse

While the Actavis promethazine codeine cough syrup ingredients serve legitimate medical purposes, their combination—especially codeine and promethazine—can be dangerous when misused. Recreational use, often mixed with soda and candy to make “lean,” poses serious health risks including respiratory depression, addiction, and even death.

Conclusion

Understanding the ingredients in Actavis Promethazine Codeine cough syrup is crucial whether you’re a patient, healthcare professional, or someone curious about this once-popular medication. Though no longer legally produced under the Actavis label, similar formulations still exist and are strictly regulated due to their potential for abuse.

Always consult a healthcare provider before using any medication containing codeine or promethazine.

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