Codeine is an opioid medication primarily used to treat mild to moderate pain and, in combination with other medications, to temporarily relieve coughing¹²³. As a narcotic analgesic, codeine acts on the central nervous system to alter the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain⁴. It can also suppress cough by decreasing activity in the brain that causes coughing⁵.

Key Points about Codeine:

1. Forms and Availability:

   • Codeine is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid forms⁶.
   • It is also available in combination with other medications such as acetaminophen or aspirin⁷.

2. Addiction and Dependence:

   • Codeine can become habit-forming if used for extended periods, leading to both mental and physical dependence⁸⁹. Withdrawal symptoms can occur if usage is stopped abruptly.
   • The risk of addiction and misuse is significant, particularly among certain populations¹⁰.

3. Special Considerations:

   • Codeine should not be used by children under 12 years old or by those 12-18 years old with a high risk of breathing problems¹¹.
   • Pregnant women using codeine may cause serious side effects to their newborns, such as neonatal withdrawal syndrome¹².
   • "Ultra-rapid metabolizers" can convert codeine to morphine more quickly, which may lead to an overdose¹³.

4. Usage Guidelines:

   • Patients must strictly follow the prescribed dosage and usage instructions to avoid potential risks¹⁴.
   • It's crucial to store codeine securely to prevent its use by individuals who might misuse it¹⁵.

Given the potential for misuse and addiction, codeine is highly regulated and should only be used under a healthcare provider's guidance and monitoring¹⁶.

Footnotes

1. Mayo Clinic - Codeine (Oral Route) Description ↩

2. Mayo Clinic - Acetaminophen and Codeine ↩

3. MedlinePlus - Codeine: Drug Information ↩

4. MedlinePlus - Acetaminophen and Codeine ↩

5. Mayo Clinic - Codeine (Oral Route) Proper Use ↩

6. Ibid. ↩

7. Mayo Clinic - Codeine (Oral Route) Description ↩

8. Mayo Clinic - Acetaminophen and Codeine: Precautions ↩

9. Mayo Clinic - Acetaminophen and Codeine: Description ↩

10. StatPearls - Prescription of Controlled Substances: Benefits and Risks ↩

11. Mayo Clinic - Acetaminophen and Codeine: Precautions ↩

12. Ibid. ↩

13. Ibid. ↩

14. Mayo Clinic - Codeine (Oral Route) Proper Use ↩

15. Ibid. ↩

16. Ibid. ↩