Codeine

Codeine is a type of narcotic drug used to treat mild to moderate pain and coughing. Drugs containing this medication are used to treat the symptoms of a patient's condition, such as pain or coughing, but they do not cure the underlying condition. Instead, codeine works by changing the way the brain experiences pain and by decreasing activity in the part of the brain that causes coughing.

Codeine Combination Drugs

Codeine may be prescribed in combination with another drug. For example, pain relievers such as acetaminophen are available with codeine. In January 2011, the FDA issued a notice to healthcare professionals to limit the amount of acetaminophen contained in these combination drugs so that a dangerous overdose of acetaminophen does not occur. Your doctor should advise you about the safe amount of acetaminophen that you may take each day if you are on a combination drug.

What to Know Before Taking Codeine

Whether you take codeine alone or as part of a combination drug, it is important to be aware that:

• Codeine may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, especially when getting up quickly from laying down. Thus, it is important to get up slowly to prevent injury and to report any of these side effects to your doctor promptly.
• Codeine can cause respiratory distress. If you have difficulty breathing you should immediately contact 911.
• Codeine can make you drowsy. It is important not to drive a car or handle heavy equipment until you know how tired the drug will make you.
• Codeine can pass to your baby through breast milk and may be dangerous. The codeine can cause significant, life threatening complications for your child. If your baby is unusually sleepy, has trouble feeding, has difficulty breathing, or becomes limp, get emergency medical help.
• Codeine may cause other significant side effects including changes in vision, seizures and changes in heartbeat. These are also signs of potentially significant problems that require emergency medical attention.

If you experience any of the side effects described above, or any other complications from taking codeine then it is important to get the medical help you that you need quickly and to talk to your regular doctor about the benefits and risks of continuing with codeine treatment for your pain or cough symptoms.