Find Effective Cough Relief with AKORN Promethazine Hydrochloride and Codeine Phosphate Solution
AKORN Promethazine Hydrochloride and Codeine Phosphate Oral Solution is a reliable choice for individuals needing temporary relief from coughs and upper respiratory symptoms. This medication combines the antitussive power of codeine phosphate with the antihistamine properties of promethazine hydrochloride.
Codeine phosphate is classified pharmacologically as a narcotic analgesic. It originates from the opium poppy as one of the naturally occurring phenanthrene alkaloids. The cough suppressing action begins within 15 minutes after oral administration. Peak action occurs at 45 to 60 minutes after ingestion.
Promethazine hydrochloride functions as an H1 receptor blocking agent. It provides clinically useful sedative and antiemetic effects alongside its antihistaminic action.
Pharmaceutical Formulation and Active Ingredients
Each 5 mL serving of this oral solution delivers precise medicinal concentration to ensure therapeutic consistency. The active components comprise two distinct pharmaceutical agents working synergistically.
| Component Name | Pharmacological Class | Concentration per 5 mL |
|---|---|---|
| Codeine Phosphate | Opioid Agonist / Narcotic Analgesic | 10 mg |
| Promethazine Hydrochloride | Phenothiazine Antihistamine | 6.25 mg |
The liquid preparation maintains a strict pH equilibrium between 4.8 and 5.4. Alcohol content stands at 8 percent by volume to stabilize active liquid elements. Individuals reviewing therapeutic cough options through the Shop section standardly verify these exact parameters before consultation.
Chemical Structure and Properties of Codeine Phosphate
Codeine represents a naturally occurring phenanthrene alkaloid derived from opium poppies. Pharmacologically categorized as a narcotic analgesic, codeine acts upon central nervous system receptors to alleviate severe coughing. The formal chemical designation for codeine phosphate in this preparation is 7,8-Didehydro-4, 5α-epoxy-3-methoxy-17-methylmorphinan-6α-ol phosphate (1:1) (salt) hemihydrate.
- Molecular Formula: C18H21NO3 • H3PO4 • ½ H2O
- Molecular Weight: 406.37 g/mol
- Physical Appearance: White needle-shaped crystals or fine crystalline powder
- Solubility Characteristics: Freely soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol
Detailed chemical data regarding codeine compounds remains documented on the PubChem Codeine Phosphate Directory for chemical validation.
Inactive Composition and Excipient Profile
Beyond active pharmaceutical ingredients, akorn promethazine codeine solution contains specific excipients designed to support stability, taste, and preservation. Understanding complete ingredient lists prevents unexpected allergic reactions.
- Flavoring and Sweetening Agents: Peach-mint flavor, sucrose, saccharin sodium
- Preservatives: Methylparaben, propylparaben, sodium benzoate, sodium metabisulfite
- Acidifiers and Buffers: Anhydrous citric acid, ascorbic acid, sodium citrate anhydrous
- Coloring and Solvents: D&C Red #33, FD&C Blue #1, propylene glycol, edetate disodium, purified water
Patients comparing respiratory remedies with broader therapeutic options like Codeine formulations or Painkillers must review all inactive compounds to ensure patient compatibility.
Clinical Usage and Dosing Standards
Administration of akorn syrup demands accurate measuring devices to avoid dosing errors. Physicians determine specific daily schedules based on patient age, body weight, and severity of symptoms. Because codeine operates as an opioid agonist, adherence to medical instructions remains essential.
Patients seeking clear answers regarding ordering procedures or store policies can read through our FAQs resource page to understand compliance protocols.
Regulatory Status and Safety Notice
Safety regulations govern all controlled substances containing codeine. The regulatory environment surrounding manufacturing standards changed significantly when Akorn Operating Company LLC filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy. According to the official FDA Akorn Voluntary Recall Announcement, the company recalled human drug products due to the closure of quality management programs. Healthcare buyers must remain informed about product availability and legal prescription requirements.

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