Irish parents warned not to give kids under 12 medicines containing codeine

Irish parents are being warned not to give children under 12 years any medicines containing codeine for the treatment of coughs and colds.

Pharmacists has said there is a risk of serious side effects including breathing problems.

It is also not recommended that adolescents up to 18 who have respiratory issues be given codeine.

The warning comes from the Irish Pharmacy Union on foot of European restrictions on codeine.