Codeine is a medication that is prescribed to relieve pain and to suppress coughing. It falls into two classes of medication: antitussives and opiate analgesics. It is a narcotic drug that is found in opium, and is also known as an alkaloid. Codeine works to relieve pain by altering the way in which pain is sensed by the brain. It suppresses coughing by decreasing activity in the part of the brain that causes that coughing. It is taken in solid form as a pain reliever, typically with aspirin or acetaminophen, or in liquid form when used to suppress coughing. Codeine can be habit-forming.
Side Effects
Some side effects of codeine can be mild and go away with time. Even with mild side effects, however, medical attention should be sought if they become severe or do not go away. These side effects include lightheadedness, headache, drowsiness, vomiting, nausea, constipation, mood changes, stomach pain and difficulty urinating.
Serious Side Effects
Some side effects of taking codeine are more serious. If they occur, medical attention should be sought immediately. These serious side effects include hives, itching, seizures, vision changes, rash, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and a heartbeat that is irregular, pounding or fast.
Storage
In order to maintain the efficacy of the drug, it should be kept in the original container and stored at room temperature. Keep it away from moisture, such as the humid conditions that can occur in a bathroom in which showers are taken, and heat.
Overdose
In the case of a codeine overdose, contact a poison-control office. If someone has taken an overdose and has collapsed or is not breathing, contact emergency services immediately. Signs and symptoms of a codeine overdose include loss of muscle tone, cold and clammy skin, unconsciousness, dizziness, fainting, difficulty breathing, slow heartbeat and excessive drowsiness.
Precautions
Before prescribing codeine or a medication that has codeine in it, a physician should be informed of certain patient conditions. These include pregnancy, plans to become pregnant, past allergic reactions, the drinking of alcohol, recent surgeries, planned future surgeries and any other prescription or non-prescription medications that are being taken.
