I know that ten years ago you could buy this cough syrup with the low dose behind the counter. I used to all the time and sign the log book. I seriously doubt the dea allows this anymore. 6 months ago I received a prescription for this same syrup and was insulted and let the doctor know. Codeine syrup is a prescription opioid pain reliever that also suppresses the cough reflex in people who take it. Promethazine is an antihistamine, and it’s often combined with codeine syrup and prescribed for conditions such as common colds, the flu, and bronchitis. Answers from doctors on how to get a prescription for codeine syrup. First: Not likely, unless explore online pharmacies, but then you would not know the potency of the medicine since they are not fda regulated. Answers from doctors on how to get a prescription for codeine syrup. First: Not likely, unless explore online pharmacies, but then you would not know the potency of the medicine since. Purple drank is a recreational drug which includes a prescription-strength cough syrup used in a manner inconsistent with its labeling and mixed with a carbonated soft drink. Since then, the DEA has rescheduled codeine so it requires a prescription, and both federal and state authorities track these prescriptions, along with the sale of cough syrups in general. These laws were instituted due to meth production in small labs in the US, which used cough and cold medicines. How to use Codeine Antitussive Cough Syrup. Read the Medication Guide if available from your pharmacist before you start taking this product and each time you get a refill. Codeine can be abused to get high because it can trigger feelings of euphoria as it binds to opioid receptors, but the effects of high are often less with codeine as opposed to other prescription opioids. There is also the risk for addiction and dependence, although again as compared to other opioids this risk is somewhat lower. cough, codeine, codeine/promethazine, promethazine, doctor, prescription, cough syrup Details: Do Dr's prescribe any other kind of cough syrup other than with codeine.