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EU Evaluates Safety of Combined Pain Relief Medicines

The European Medicines Agency has initiated a safety review of certain combination pain relief medications, including those containing buclizine and codeine. The decision reflects ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of pharmaceutical products in the EU.

08 May 2026 / 1 min read

Last updated 08 May 2026, 13:30

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) is conducting a periodic safety update report (PSUSA) for specific combination pain relief medicines, a move aimed at ensuring their ongoing safety for consumers.

The PSUSA focuses on products containing active substances such as buclizine, codeine, and paracetamol, as well as caffeine in combination with codeine and paracetamol. The EMA regularly assesses these medications as part of its pharmacovigilance efforts to monitor the safety of medicines authorized within the EU.

Safety evaluations like this PSUSA are crucial for maintaining public trust in pharmaceuticals. By assessing potential risks associated with combinations of pain relief medications, the EMA aims to mitigate any adverse effects and safeguard patient health.

Following this assessment, the CMDh (Co-ordination Group for Mutual Recognition and Decentralised Procedures - Human) will issue scientific conclusions and recommendations. Changes to product information may follow, affecting how these medicines are prescribed and used across EU member states.

Source: European Medicines Agency

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Source: EMA What's New

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