Kodel is a medication that’s used to treat a variety of conditions. It’s essential to know how to use it safely and effectively. In this blog post, we will discuss the uses, potential side effects, interactions, and proper dosage of Kodel to help you make informed decisions about your health.
Kodel bromhexina codeina jarabe is a cough syrup from Mexico that helps stop coughing and also thins mucus. It has two important ingredients: Bromhexine at 160mg and Codeine at 200mg. Bromhexine makes mucus thinner and easier to clear. Codeine is like a strong pain medicine that turns into morphine in the body. People use it for relieving pain and treating coughs and colds.
According to American addiction centers, codeine in cough syrups like Kodel can be misused a lot. That’s why the Drug Enforcement Administration now watches it more closely and controls it better. They moved it to Schedule III, which means it’s under more strict rules. This happened because many people were using it in ways that weren’t safe, especially in cough syrups, which is its main use in the US.
What are the uses of Kodel?
- Management of Pain: A primary application of Kodel lies in its ability to alleviate moderate to severe pain. By influencing the brain’s perception and response to pain signals, it aids in providing relief.
- Management of Cough: Some cough medicines incorporate Kodel to suppress the urge to cough. It operates on the brain’s control center for coughing, helping mitigate this reflex.
- Post-Surgical Comfort: Kodel assists in pain management during post-surgical recovery, facilitating a smoother healing process.
How should I take Kodel?
Kodel syrup is meant for adults and kids who are 12 years old or older. You can swallow it. Just do what the prescription label says. You can take it with or without food. If it makes your stomach upset, eat something before taking it. To measure the right amount, use a special spoon or container. Don’t use regular spoons because they might not be accurate. After each use, rinse the measuring thing with water. Take the medicine regularly, not more often than told.
The pharmacist will give you a special MedGuide with each prescription. Read it carefully every time.
If you’re thinking about giving this to kids, talk to a doctor first. Kids shouldn’t use this medicine.
In Case of Overdosage: If you think you took too much, call poison control or go to the ER right away.
Remember, this medicine is only for you. Don’t share it with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as possible. If your next dose is approaching, take only that dose. Do not take two or more doses.
What to Share with Your Doctor Before Taking This Medicine
Before using this medicine, make sure your doctor knows about any of these things:
- If you have Addison’s disease
- If you have had a brain tumor
- If you are dealing with diabetes
- If you have gallbladder issues
- If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma
- If you had a head injury before
- If you have heart problems
- If you have faced drug or alcohol problems in the past
- If you have had an irregular heartbeat before
- If you drink alcohol often
- If you have kidney troubles
- If your liver isn’t working well
- If your blood pressure tends to be low
- If you have lung or breathing problems like asthma
- If you have been diagnosed with a mental illness
- If you have issues with your pancreas
- If you have had seizures
- If your stomach or intestines cause problems
- If you have thyroid issues
- If you find it hard to pee
- If you have ever had an unusual or allergic reaction to codeine, bromhexine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant
- If you are breastfeeding.
Potential Kodel Jarabe Side Effects You Need to Know
Using Kodel might lead to side effects. If any of these symptoms bother you or don’t go away, let your doctor know:
- Ear irritation
- Allergic skin rash
- Feeling dizzy
- Headache
- Feeling queasy or vomiting
- Having diarrhea
- Finding it hard to breathe
- Stomach pain
- Difficulty urinating
Certain side effects can be serious. If you notice any of these signs, stop using Kodel syrup and call your doctor right away or get emergency help.
- Feeling restless, seeing things that aren’t there, having a fever, sweating, confusion, fast heartbeat, shaking, severe muscle stiffness or twitching, trouble coordinating, feeling sick, throwing up, or having diarrhea
- Nausea, vomiting, not feeling hungry, weakness, or feeling dizzy
- Having trouble getting or keeping an erection
- Changes in periods
- Less interest in sex
- Breathing noisily or shallowly
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Changes in heartbeat
- Skin rash
- Itchy skin
- Hives
- Changes in vision
- Having seizures
- Kodel could have other side effects too. If you notice anything unusual while taking this medicine, let your doctor know.
If a serious side effect shows up, you or your doctor can report it to the Food and Drug Administration’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program. You can do this online at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch or call 1-800-332-1088.
What Can Interact with This medicine?
Avoid taking this medicine alongside these medications:
- Dofetilide
- Dronedarone
- Depression medications like amitriptyline, fluoxetine, and sertraline
- Seizure medications like carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and primidone
- MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
- Muscle relaxants used in surgeries
- Metoclopramide
- Other pain or cough medicines (opiates)
- Cisapride
- Alcohol
- Allergy, cough, and cold medicines called antihistamines
- Anxiety or sleep medicines
- General anesthetics like halothane, isoflurane, methoxyflurane, and propofol
- Local anesthetics like lidocaine, pramoxine, and tetracaine
- Medicines for anxiety, depression, or nausea like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, and thioridazine
- Pimozide
- Quinidine
This medicine might also interact with these medications:
- Medicines for fungal infections like ketoconazole and itraconazole
- Medicines for stomach issues like dicyclomine and hyoscyamine
- Medicines for travel sickness like scopolamine
- Medicines for Parkinson’s disease like benztropine and trihexyphenidyl
- Antiviral medicines for hepatitis, HIV, or AIDS
- Atropine
- Certain antibiotics like erythromycin and clarithromycin
- Medicines for bladder problems like oxybutynin and tolterodine
- Ipratropium
- Other medicines that affect heart rhythm (QT interval)
- Rifampin
This isn’t a complete list of interactions. Let your healthcare provider know about all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also, share if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Certain things might affect how your medicine works.
What to Keep in Mind While Using This Medicine
Follow your doctor’s or healthcare professional’s instructions precisely. Don’t exceed the recommended dose. Taking it for a long time might lead to your body getting used to it, meaning you might find less relief from coughing over time. If your symptoms don’t improve or worsen, inform your doctor.
If you’ve been using this medicine for a while, don’t stop suddenly, as it could trigger a severe reaction. Your body adjusts to the medicine, but this doesn’t mean you’re addicted. Addiction involves using drugs for nonmedical reasons. If your doctor wants you to stop, they’ll gradually reduce your dose to avoid side effects.
Different types of narcotic medicines (opiates) exist. If you’re taking multiple types or another medicine that causes drowsiness, you could experience more side effects. Share a list of all the medicines you’re using with your healthcare provider. Stick to the prescribed dose; don’t overdo it. Seek emergency help if you face breathing issues or extreme sleepiness. Alcohol can interfere with the medicine’s effects, so avoid it.
How to Store Your Medicine
Keep it away from children. This medicine can be misused. Store it securely to prevent theft. Don’t share it with anyone; giving or selling it is dangerous and illegal.
Keep it at room temperature (15–30 degrees C or 59–86 degrees F), shielded from light. Accidental overdose or death can happen if other adults, kids, or pets take it. Dispose of unused medicine by mixing it with something like cat litter or coffee grounds, then seal it in a bag or coffee can before tossing. Don’t use it past the expiration date.
Frequent Asked Questions
What is Kodel Jarabe used for?
Kodel Jarabe is a cough syrup commonly used to relieve coughing and cold symptoms. It helps to soothe irritation in the throat and reduce coughing.
How does Kodel Jarabe work?
Kodel Jarabe contains active ingredients that suppress the cough reflex and alleviate irritation in the throat, leading to temporary relief from coughing.
What are the side effects of Kodel Jarabe?
Common side effects of Kodel Jarabe may include drowsiness, dizziness, an upset stomach, and dry mouth. If you experience severe side effects, contact a healthcare professional.
How to take Kodel Jarabe?
Follow the dosing instructions on the label or as directed by your doctor. Usually, you take Kodel Jarabe orally, measuring the recommended dose using the provided measuring cup.
Is Kodel Jarabe safe for children?
Kodel Jarabe can be safe for children, but it’s important to follow the age-specific dosing instructions on the label. Consult a pediatrician before giving it to a child.
Can I take Kodel Jarabe with other medications?
It is best to consult a healthcare professional before combining Kodel Jarabe with other medications to avoid potential interactions or side effects.
What is the recommended dosage of Kodel Jarabe?
The recommended dosage varies based on age and the severity of symptoms. Always follow the instructions provided on the label or by your doctor.
Are there any interactions between Kodel Jarabe and alcohol?
Combining Kodel Jarabe with alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of the medication, leading to increased drowsiness. It’s advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this syrup.
How long does it take for Kodel Jarabe to start working?
Kodel Jarabe usually starts providing relief within 15 to 30 minutes after taking it. However, individual responses may vary.
Is a prescription needed to buy Kodel Jarabe?
Kodel Jarabe is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, depending on the formulation and regulations in your region. Always follow local guidelines when purchasing medication.
