About codeine
Opioid pain reliever
Used for
- Moderate to severe pain when other treatments are unsuitable.
- Sometimes used to suppress cough.
Usual adult dose
Injection dosing varies by indication and country; it is generally given in small, spaced doses under medical supervision.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness, dizziness, and nausea
- Constipation and vomiting
- Breathing slowed or difficult
- Low blood pressure
Important warnings
- Can cause dependence, overdose, and dangerously slow breathing.
- Avoid alcohol and other sedating medicines unless specifically directed.
- Use extra caution with breathing disorders, head injury, or liver impairment.
- Injection requires trained healthcare administration.
Pregnancy
May cause newborn breathing problems or withdrawal, especially with use near delivery or for prolonged periods.
Breastfeeding
Avoid during breastfeeding; codeine can cause serious sleepiness and breathing problems in a nursing infant.
Interactions
- Alcohol, benzodiazepines, and other sedatives increase breathing and sedation risks.
- Some medicines alter codeine effects, including CYP2D6-affecting drugs.
- Other opioids increase risk of severe sedation and breathing suppression.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.