Moffat Mungazi
Dr Tendai Zuze
Health Matters
COUGHS are among the most common symptoms people experience, whether due to seasonal colds, infections, or allergies.
For many, reaching for a cough syrup is the natural next step, and over time these medications have become a staple in households across Zimbabwe.
But not all cough syrups are harmless.
Some, particularly those containing codeine, pose serious health risks when used inappropriately or without proper medical guidance.
Codeine is an opioid, related to drugs like morphine, and it works by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain.
It is effective in treating dry and irritating coughs, especially when prescribed for short periods.
However, like other opioids, codeine has properties that can lead to sedation, euphoria, and even hallucinations when taken in high doses.
These effects have made it attractive for recreational use, particularly among young people, giving rise to a disturbing trend of codeine syrup abuse.
Over the past few years, misuse of these syrups has surged, with many users mixing them with soft drinks to create cocktails.
What starts off as casual or experimental use can quickly turn into dependence. Chronic abuse of codeine syrups can lead to addiction, breathing difficulties, liver and kidney damage, and serious mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and paranoia.
Young users may also experience academic decline, social withdrawal, and risky behaviour.
Recognising the signs of codeine syrup misuse is important.
Individuals may appear drowsy or sedated, speak slowly, isolate themselves, or show a sudden and unexplained interest in cough medications.
Some may fake or exaggerate cough symptoms just to gain access to these syrups.
Empty bottles hidden away or increased visits to pharmacies are also potential red flags.
Despite these risks, codeine-containing syrups remain available in many pharmacies and clinics, often without stringent control.
While they do have a place in short-term cough treatment under medical supervision, they should never be used casually or repeatedly without guidance.
Safer, non-codeine alternatives for managing coughs are available and often just as effective, especially when the underlying cause of the cough is properly diagnosed and treated.
Addressing this problem requires a multifaceted approach.
Communities need more education on the dangers of codeine misuse, and health professionals should lead in promoting awareness and responsible prescribing.
Stronger regulation and enforcement can limit easy access to these products, while schools and youth programs can play a vital role in discouraging misuse through peer education and counselling.
In the end, what seems like a simple remedy for a dry cough can, in the wrong hands, become a substance of dependence.
Codeine is a powerful drug and deserves to be treated with the same caution and respect as any other controlled medication.
Let’s all do our part to raise awareness and protect those at risk — because health should never be compromised by what comes in a bottle of syrup.
For more information, contact [email protected].
Online Reporter