Tylenol 3 is a commonly prescribed medication that consists of two different pain-relieving drugs: codeine and acetaminophen. Both of these drugs can be taken on their own, but they are more effective when taken in combination. This medication is also made up of various inactive ingredients. Tylenol 3 is usually prescribed for moderate or severe pain, but it is not intended to be used for extended periods of time.
Codeine
Codeine is a narcotic pain reliever, RxMed explains. This means that it acts on the brain and stimulates special structures called opioid receptors. When opioid receptors are stimulated, they send out signals to nerves in the brain that block pain signals and generate a sensation of euphoria. Because codeine acts directly upon the brain itself, it is known as a centrally acting pain reliever. Codeine, when compared to other narcotic pain relievers, does not get as thoroughly broken down by the liver, making it very effective when taken orally. Codeine is extremely potent, but it also can lead to physical dependency. As a result, patients should avoid taking codeine for long periods of time or taking more than their doctor recommends for the management of pain.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is another active ingredient in Tylenol 3, Drugs.com explains. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and also works to reduce fevers. It is combined with codeine in Tylenol 3 to help maximize the pain-relieving effects of codeine without increasing the amount of narcotic medication used. Although acetaminophen cannot lead to physical dependence, in high doses it can lead to permanent liver damage. Patients taking Tylenol 3 should be careful not to use other acetaminophen-containing products without checking with their doctor, as this can lead to dangerously high levels of acetaminophen in the body.
Inactive Ingredients
There are a number of other compounds that are present in Tylenol 3, RxList explains, including magnesium stearate, pre-gelatinized starch, powdered cellulose, modified starch and sodium metabisulfite. These are known as inactive components because they have no medicinal effect. Instead, these ingredients are part of the structure of the tablet and either work to help hold the active ingredients in place or to control the rate at which the acetaminophen and codeine are released.
