WARNING

Codeine is an opioid medication used to relieve mild to moderate pain and suppress coughs. However, like all opioids, it carries certain risks, including:

• Addiction: Codeine can be habit-forming, leading to physical and psychological dependence.
• Respiratory depression: High doses of codeine can slow down breathing, which can be dangerous, especially in individuals with respiratory issues.
• Overdose: Taking too much codeine can lead to overdose, which can be fatal. Symptoms of overdose include extreme drowsiness, confusion, shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, and loss of consciousness.
• Tolerance: With prolonged use, the body can develop tolerance to codeine, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects.
• Withdrawal: Abruptly stopping codeine after prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, muscle aches, anxiety, insomnia, and nausea.
• Side effects: Common side effects of codeine include drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, nausea, and vomiting.

It’s crucial to use codeine only as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to be aware of the risks associated with its use. Additionally, individuals with a history of substance abuse or certain medical conditions should use caution or avoid codeine altogether.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Codeine is typically prescribed for the following purposes:

• Pain relief: It’s commonly used to manage mild to moderate pain, such as that caused by dental procedures, injuries, or certain medical conditions.
• Cough suppression: Codeine is also used as a cough suppressant to relieve coughing, particularly when it’s non-productive and disruptive.

How should this medicine be used?

When using codeine, it’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage and instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Here are some general guidelines for using codeine:

• Dosage: Take codeine exactly as directed by your doctor. The dosage will depend on factors such as the severity of your pain or cough, your medical condition, and your response to the medication.
• Administration: Codeine is typically taken orally in the form of tablets, capsules, or liquid. Follow the instructions on the prescription label or provided by your pharmacist.
• Frequency: Take codeine as prescribed, usually every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain relief or cough suppression. Avoid exceeding the recommended dosage or frequency unless directed by your doctor.
• Duration: Use codeine for the shortest duration necessary to relieve your symptoms. Do not continue using it longer than prescribed without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Avoid alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking codeine, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and respiratory depression.
• Monitoring: Pay attention to how codeine affects you. If you experience severe side effects or if your symptoms persist or worsen despite taking the medication, contact your doctor promptly.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused codeine medication properly, following local regulations or guidelines. Do not share codeine with others, especially those with a history of substance abuse.

It’s crucial to use codeine responsibly and only as prescribed by your healthcare provider to minimize the risk of adverse effects and dependency. If you have any questions or concerns about using codeine, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to its primary uses for pain relief and cough suppression, codeine may sometimes be prescribed for other purposes, including:

• Diarrhea: In some cases, codeine may be used to treat diarrhea, particularly when other treatments have been ineffective. It works by slowing down bowel movements.
• Adjunctive therapy: Codeine may be used as an adjunctive therapy in combination with other medications for certain conditions, such as in the management of severe pain when other pain relievers alone are insufficient.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using codeine, consider the following:

• Medical history: Before taking codeine, inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have a history of respiratory problems, liver or kidney disease, substance abuse, mental health disorders, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Allergies: If you are allergic to codeine or any other opioids, inform your doctor. Additionally, disclose any allergies you have to other medications or substances.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements. Codeine may interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness.
• Driving and operating machinery: Codeine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired judgment, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Avoid these activities until you know how codeine affects you.
• Alcohol and other depressants: Avoid consuming alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while taking codeine, as they can increase the risk of respiratory depression and other side effects.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using codeine. Codeine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. It should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
• Avoid abrupt discontinuation: Do not stop taking codeine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor may need to gradually reduce your dose to safely discontinue the medication.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can use codeine safely and effectively under the supervision of your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for codeine are not typically necessary. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated while using codeine. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can increase the levels of codeine in your blood and potentially lead to overdose or other adverse effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of codeine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Codeine, like other opioids, can cause a range of side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Drowsiness: Codeine can cause drowsiness or sedation, which may impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Constipation: Opioids like codeine commonly cause constipation by slowing down bowel movements. Increasing fluid intake, dietary fiber, and physical activity can help alleviate this side effect.
• Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea or vomiting while taking codeine. Taking codeine with food may help reduce these symptoms.
• Dizziness: Codeine can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up from a sitting or lying position. It’s essential to get up slowly to minimize the risk of falls.
• Itching or rash: Some people may experience itching or a rash as a side effect of codeine. If you develop a severe rash, hives, or swelling, seek medical attention immediately.
• Respiratory depression: In high doses or when used improperly, codeine can slow down breathing, leading to respiratory depression. This is more likely to occur in individuals with respiratory conditions or when codeine is combined with other depressant substances.
• Urinary retention: Codeine can cause difficulty urinating or urinary retention, particularly in men with prostate enlargement.
• Confusion or disorientation: Some individuals may experience confusion, disorientation, or changes in mood or behavior while taking codeine.
• Dependency and withdrawal: Prolonged use of codeine can lead to physical dependence, and abrupt discontinuation may result in withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, anxiety, muscle aches, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating.
• Serious side effects: In rare cases, codeine can cause serious side effects such as allergic reactions, including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and seizures. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.

It’s essential to use codeine only as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to be aware of the potential side effects. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor for guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of codeine, here’s what you should know:

• Storage: Store codeine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not store codeine in the bathroom or in the kitchen near sinks, as moisture and heat can affect its potency.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired codeine properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so by local regulations. Instead, check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on the proper disposal method.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek immediate medical attention: If you suspect an overdose or if someone has ingested codeine accidentally, call emergency services (e.g., 911) or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Provide information: If possible, provide healthcare professionals with information about the amount of codeine ingested, when it was taken, and any other medications or substances that may have been taken concurrently.
• Monitor vital signs: While waiting for medical help to arrive, monitor the person’s vital signs, including their breathing, pulse, and level of consciousness. Be prepared to administer first aid, including CPR, if necessary.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid alcohol: Do not consume alcohol while taking codeine, as it can increase the risk of side effects and overdose.
• Follow dosage instructions: Take codeine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or frequency without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Avoid driving and operating machinery: Codeine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired judgment, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely.
• Medical alert: Inform healthcare providers, including emergency responders and dentists, that you are taking codeine. This is important in case of emergency treatment or surgery.
• Regular follow-ups: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your response to codeine and to discuss any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing.

By following these guidelines and being informed about storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and other important information, you can use codeine safely and effectively under the guidance of your healthcare provider.