- Pain relief: Management of mild to moderate acute pain.
- Cough suppression: Used to treat a persistent, non-productive (dry) cough.
- Antidiarrheal: Provides symptomatic relief for chronic diarrhea.
Side effects
As with all opioids, codeine can cause both common and serious side effects.
Common side effects
Common side effects
- Constipation
- Drowsiness, fatigue, and dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
Serious side effects
- Respiratory depression: Slow, shallow, or troubled breathing, which is the most life-threatening effect.
- Addiction and dependence: The risk of addiction and dependence increases with prolonged use.
- Serotonin syndrome: Symptoms include agitation, confusion, fever, muscle twitching, and a fast heartbeat.
- Hypotension: Low blood pressure that can cause dizziness or fainting.
- Seizures: A known risk, especially in those with a history of seizure disorders.
Overdose symptoms
A codeine overdose is a medical emergency. Symptoms can include:
- Pinpoint (very small) pupils
- Bluish lips and fingernails due to lack of oxygen
- Slowed, shallow, or stopped breathing
- Extreme drowsiness, stupor, or loss of consciousness
- Limp or weak muscles
- Cold, clammy skin
- Weak pulse and low blood pressure
Important safety information
- Do not take more than the prescribed dose. Overdoses can be fatal.
- Avoid alcohol. The sedative and respiratory depressive effects of codeine are enhanced by alcohol.
- Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
- Contraindicated for some groups. This includes children under 12, breastfeeding mothers, and individuals with certain lung diseases or known hypersensitivity.
- Be aware of drug metabolism. Some individuals metabolize codeine into morphine faster or slower than average, which can impact its effectiveness or increase the risk of toxicity.
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