What is Codeine?
Codeine is a prescription drug used for treating mild to moderate pain. It is available in tablet form and sometimes in cough syrups for treating coughs. Codeine tablets are very strong and highly addictive.
Codeine Uses
- Codeine tablets are used for relieving mild to moderate pain.
- This medication is also used in combination with other medicines to reduce cough.
Note: Codeine tablets help relieve symptoms but do not treat the underlying cause. Codeine belongs to a class of medications called narcotics.
Codeine Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Agitation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Itching
- Hives
- Change in vision
- Seizures
If you experience any of these serious symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. If you have any adverse reactions to Codeine, avoid using it.
- Doctor's Advice: Your doctor has prescribed this medication after determining that the benefits outweigh the potential side effects. Most people using this medicine do not experience severe side effects.
- Medical Help: Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience any serious side effects from Codeine.
Precautions While Using Codeine
Before using Codeine syrup/tablet, consult your doctor if you:
- Are allergic to Codeine syrup or any other medications.
- Have any inactive ingredient sensitivities which could cause allergic reactions or other serious problems.
Inform your doctor of your medical history, particularly if you have:
- Brain disorders
- Breathing problems
- Gallbladder disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
Note: Codeine can cause drowsiness. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Codeine as it can lead to serious side effects.
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Get A Second OpinionHow to Take Codeine
Codeine is available in the form of tablets, capsules and liquid. It is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours.
Instructions:
- Follow the directions on the prescription label carefully.
- If you are taking Codeine for several weeks, consult your doctor before stopping the medication. The doctor may decrease the dosage gradually based on the medicine's effectiveness.
- Shake the liquid solution well before each use to mix the medication evenly.
Pain Management:
- Pain relievers work best if used at the first signs of pain.
- Do not increase the dose, use the medicine more often, or use it for longer than prescribed.
- For ongoing pain (e.g: cancer pain), your doctor may prescribe long-acting opioid medications. Use Codeine only for sudden pain when needed.
Withdrawal and Addiction:
- Stopping Codeine suddenly can cause withdrawal, especially if used for a long time or in high doses. To prevent withdrawal, your doctor may gradually reduce your dose.
- Report withdrawal symptoms to your doctor or pharmacist immediately, such as restlessness, mental/mood changes (including anxiety, trouble sleeping, suicidal thoughts), watery eyes, runny nose, nausea, diarrhea, sweating or sudden muscle aches.
- Although Codeine helps many people, it can sometimes cause addiction. The risk may be higher if you have a substance use disorder (such as drug/alcohol abuse or addiction). Use Codeine exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of addiction.
Codeine Dosage Guidelines
- Drug interactions can alter how Codeine works and increase the risk of serious side effects.
- Maintain a list of all the products you use and share it with your doctor and pharmacist to avoid interactions.
Overdose
- An overdose of Codeine can be accidental and may result in serious harm to your body's functions.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose as it can lead to a medical emergency.
Missed Dose
- Missing one or two doses of Codeine typically won't have a significant effect.
- However, certain medications may be less effective if doses are missed.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to the time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose.
- Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding missed doses.
Storage
- Store Codeine at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
- Keep the medication away from heat, air and light as exposure can damage it.
- Ensure the medicine is kept in a safe place, out of children's reach.
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Book an AppointmentInteractions
Drug interactions can change the way Codeine works; it can increase the risk of serious side effects. Keep a list of all the products you use and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Before taking Codeine consult your Doctor. In case you face any problems or get any side effects after taking Codeine rush immediately to your nearby hospital or consult your doctor for better treatment. Carry your medications always in your bag while travelling to avoid any immediate emergencies. Follow your prescription and follow your Doctor advice whenever you take Codeine.
Codeine vs Morphine
| Codeine | Morphine |
|---|---|
| Codeine is a prescription drug which is used for treating mild to moderate pain. It comes in the form of tablets. Codeine is sometimes available in the form of cough syrups for treating coughs. | Morphine extended-release tablets are used for relieving severe pain which cannot be controlled by other medicines. |
| Codeine tablets are used for relieving mild to moderate pain. This medication is also used with the combination of other medicine for reducing cough | Morphine is used for treating severe pain. The medication belongs to the class of drugs called opioid analgesics. |
Some of the common side effects of Codeine are:
|
Some of the common side effects of Morphine are:
|
