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Codeine

  • Codeine is used to treat pain, coughing or diarrhoea.
  • Drowsiness, nausea and constipation are the most common side-effects.
  • Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.

About codeine

Type of medicineOpioid analgesic
Used forPain relief, dry cough or diarrhoea
Also calledCodeine phosphate
Available asTablets, oral liquid, and injection

Codeine is used to treat mild to moderate pain, and dry coughs; it works on the nerves and brain to reduce the pain you feel or your need to cough.

Codeine can cause constipation by slowing the activity of the bowel, and because of this, it is useful in treating diarrhoea.

Codeine is also contained in a number of medicines which are used for pain relief or to suppress coughing, and which can be bought over-the-counter in pharmacies. Cough medicines containing codeine which are bought over-the-counter are not suitable for use in children and young people under 18 years of age.

Before taking codeine

Before taking codeine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have liver, kidney or prostate problems.
  • If you have heart rhythm problems.
  • If you have breathing problems, such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
  • If you have low blood pressure.
  • If you have thyroid problems.
  • If you suffer from convulsions.
  • If you have gall bladder disease or gall stones.
  • If you have been constipated for more than a week or have an inflammatory bowel problem.
  • If you have myasthenia gravis (a condition causing muscle weakness).
  • If you have recently suffered a serious head injury.
  • If you have phaeochromocytoma or any other adrenal gland problem.
  • If you have ever had a problem with drug addiction.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
  • If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take codeine

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Swallow codeine tablets with a drink of water. You can take codeine before, with, or after food.
  • Take codeine exactly as you have been directed by your doctor. Never take more than the prescribed dose.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember and then carry on as before. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Do not drink alcohol with codeine as this will increase the side-effects of dizziness and drowsiness.
  • Taking codeine regularly for a long time can lead to your body becoming dependent on it, which might cause you to feel restless and irritable when you stop taking it. If you are concerned about this, discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking codeine.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with codeine.
  • If you are having injections of codeine and you are planning a trip abroad, you are advised to carry a letter with you from your doctor. If you plan to travel for more than 3 months, you must check with the Home Office before you travel as you will need to apply in writing for a licence to take codeine injections with you. This advice does not apply to the tablet and oral liquid forms of codeine.

Can codeine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effectsWhat can I do if I experience this
Feeling or being sick, abdominal painEat little and often. Stick to simple foods. If this continues to be a problem, speak with your doctor
ConstipationTry to eat a well balanced diet containing plenty of fibre and drink 6-8 glasses of water each day
Drowsiness, difficulties with visionMake sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see clearly
Dizziness, particularly when getting up from a sitting or lying positionGetting up slowly should help
Dry mouthTry chewing sugar-free gum or sucking sugar-free sweets
Other common side-effects include: palpitations, swollen legs or ankles, mood changes, confusion, disturbed sleep, headache, sexual difficulties, difficulty passing urine, sweating, rash, and itchingIf any of these become troublesome, speak with your doctor

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store codeine

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2010DocID: 3512DocRef: dils2850Last Reviewed: 8 Nov 2010Version: 23
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