Codeine

INFORMATION ABOUT CODEINE

Codeine Uses

Codeine is used for moderate to severe pain and dry cough.

How Codeine works

Codeine is an opioid analgesic (pain reliever) which works by blocking transmission of pain signals to the brain to lower pain perception.

Common side effects of Codeine

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common

Dizziness, Vomiting, Nausea, Constipation, Lightheadedness, Sedation, Drowsiness, Shortness of breath, Respiratory depression

CONTENT DETAILS

Last updated

30 Sep 2024 | 10:40 AM (UTC)

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Medicine brands for Codeine

Markodin

₹33 to ₹33

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd

1 variant(s)

Acicod

₹17 to ₹17

Allied Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd

1 variant(s)

Montokuf

₹40 to ₹75

Shreya Life Sciences Pvt Ltd

3 variant(s)

Expert advice for Codeine

Use Codeine as instructed by your doctor. Never take in greater amounts or more often than prescribed.
It causes sleepiness or drowsiness. If this happens to you, do not drive or use machinery.
Avoid consuming alcohol when taking the Codeine, as it may cause excessive sleepiness or drowsiness.
Inform your doctor if you have ever been diagnosed with kidney or liver problems.
Store opioid pain relievers in a safe place and out of reach of others.

Frequently asked questions for Codeine

Q. What is Codeine used for?

Codeine is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It is also used, usually in combination with other medications, to reduce coughing.

Q. Is Codeine addictive?

Yes, it is possible to become addicted to this medicine. Always follow your doctor's instructions to reduce the risks of becoming addicted.

Q. How will I know if I'm addicted to it?

If you're addicted to this medicine, you may want to take it more often or feel agitated if you delay taking a dose for any reason. And if you stop taking it suddenly you may suffer from withdrawal symptoms (feeling irritable or anxious, trouble sleeping, faster heartbeat). Talk to your doctor for advice if you are worried about addiction.

Q. Will Codeine affect my fertility?

There are no confirmed studies to show that Codeine affects your fertility if taken for a short time and at normal doses. However, if you've been taking it for a long time and you are concerned about your fertility, or you are trying to get pregnant, speak to your doctor.

Q. Does Codeine cause constipation?

Yes, you may experience severe constipation after taking this medicine. Include fiber-rich food and increase your water intake. You may also consult your doctor to prescribe you a laxative or stool softener to get some relief.

Q. Who is codeine not suitable for?

FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has restricted the use of codeine to treat pain or cough in children younger than 12 years. This is because it poses serious risks, including slowed or difficult breathing and death, which appear to be a greater risk in children younger than 12 years. Along with this, this medicine is also not recommended to breastfeeding mothers due to the risk of serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants. These include excess sleepiness, difficulty breastfeeding, or serious breathing problems which can be fatal.