Often used for:
Pain relief and cough suppression
What is codeine?
Codeine is an opioid medicine used to treat pain and suppress cough. It is available as 15 mg, 30 mg, and 60 mg tablets taken by mouth and may be combined with other medicines such as acetaminophen, guaifenesin, or promethazine.
Possible late effects
- Constipation
- Itching and hives
- Feeling drowsy or very sleepy
- Feeling dizzy
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mood changes
- Dry mouth
- Fainting
- Problems urinating
Possible side effects
- Feeling drowsy
- Nausea
- Slower than normal breathing
- Low blood pressure
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck
- Not all patients who take codeine will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Tips for patients and families
- Discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Most side effects improve after a few days; report worsening symptoms as the dose may need adjustment.
- Do not stop taking regularly scheduled doses without medical guidance; sudden stopping may cause withdrawal symptoms such as diarrhea, headache, sweating, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, or trouble sleeping.
- Codeine may cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid driving or operating heavy equipment until you know how it affects you.
- If pain has interfered with sleep, increased sleepiness may occur initially.
- Increase fluid and fiber intake to help prevent constipation; tell your doctor if no bowel movement occurs within 3–5 days.
- When discontinuing long-term use, doses will be tapered; report withdrawal symptoms to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid other medicines containing acetaminophen, guaifenesin, or promethazine when taking combination products containing these ingredients.
- Other medicines—including alcohol, diphenhydramine, promethazine, benzodiazepines, certain antidepressants, and seizure medicines—can increase drowsiness. Inform your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take.
