The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has launched a public consultation on the reclassification of codeine linctus, an opioid-containing cough medicine.
The MHRA is consulting of the reclassification of the medicine to prescription only.
Codeine linctus is an oral solution or syrup with the active ingredient codeine phosphate and is used to stop a dry cough.
There have been several Yellow Card reports that codeine linctus is being used recreationally for its opioid effects, rather than for its intended use as a cough suppressant.
The medicine is currently available to purchase of the counter in pharmacies.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA chief safety officer, said: "Codeine linctus is an effective medicine, but as it is an opioid, its misuse and abuse can have major health consequences.
"Every response received will help us to develop a broader view on whether codeine linctus should be restricted to prescription-only status.
"We want to hear from members of the public, health professionals and others who would be affected by this potential change so we can make a properly considered decision for the benefit of patients, carers, and healthcare professionals across the UK.
Professor Claire Anderson, president of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, said: "We welcome the MHRA consulting in this area, to understand the impact of this potential change on pharmacists, pharmacy teams and the public.
"Medicines should maximise benefits to patient health with minimum risk. We believe there is insufficient robust evidence for the benefits of codeine linctus in treating coughs safely and appropriately. We also have significant concerns about its misuse and addictive potential, as well as the risk of overdose.
"There are many non-codeine based products available for the treatment of dry cough. With studies showing up to 60% of people are genetically predisposed to opioid dependence, the role of codeine linctus in treating what is ultimately a self-limiting condition is questionable."
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