Codeine
- Opioid analgesic for moderate pain relief
- Can be combined with other pain relievers
- Also suppresses cough in specific situations
Product Information
Better health begins with the right choices.
Dr. J. Vázquez
General Medicine Doctor | REG: 282889782
Dr. Josefina Vázquez is an experienced physician with over three years in emergency medicine, reanimation, and specialized transport.
Description
Codeine phosphate is an opioid analgesic used to treat mild to moderately severe pain. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, altering the perception and emotional response to pain.
It may also be used as a cough suppressant due to its action on the brain’s cough center.
Codeine is primarily used for the relief of acute or chronic pain, particularly when non-opioid analgesics are insufficient. It may be combined with other painkillers like paracetamol for enhanced effect.
Codeine depresses the central nervous system, providing pain relief and sedation. Its effects may include drowsiness, constipation, and, at higher doses or prolonged use, risk of dependence and respiratory depression.
Offers effective relief for moderate pain, often used when other medications are inadequate. It can be used in combination products to improve efficacy.
General Information
Codeine is an opioid medication used to treat moderate pain and suppress persistent dry coughs. It works by affecting the central nervous system.
It is used for short-term relief of moderate pain and sometimes to treat dry, irritating coughs or in combination with other medications for cold symptoms.
Codeine binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing the perception of pain and calming the cough reflex.
- For pain: typically 15–60 mg every 4–6 hours as needed.
- For cough: 10–20 mg every 4–6 hours.
- The dose must be individualized and never exceed prescribed limits.
Pain relief usually begins within 30–60 minutes of oral administration, with peak effect around 1–2 hours.
If needed, take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.
Safety & Side Effects
- Common: constipation, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting.
- Serious: respiratory depression, dependence, confusion, allergic reactions, and hypotension.
Yes. Codeine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, impairing your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid such activities until you know how it affects you.
Overdose is serious and may cause life-threatening respiratory depression. Symptoms include confusion, extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, or loss of consciousness. Seek emergency medical help immediately.
Codeine can interact with sedatives, antidepressants, alcohol, and other opioids. These combinations may increase the risk of severe side effects. Always inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.
No. Codeine is intended for short-term use only due to risks of dependence, tolerance, and addiction. Long-term use should be avoided unless strictly necessary and under specialist supervision.
Yes. Signs of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Discontinue use and seek medical help if these occur.
Codeine is not generally recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. It passes into breast milk and may cause serious breathing problems in nursing infants. Use only if clearly prescribed and monitored by a physician.
No. Alcohol increases the risk of serious side effects, including sedation, respiratory depression, and overdose.
Usage & Administration
Take only as directed by your doctor, at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary. Do not adjust your dose without medical advice.
Store securely in a cool, dry place away from children or anyone it is not prescribed for. Codeine is a controlled substance and should be handled with care.
It should not be used by people with respiratory depression, asthma, known hypersensitivity to opioids, children under 12 years, or post-tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy in certain pediatric cases.
It may be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce nausea.
Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Regular tablets may be swallowed whole, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
Ordering & Delivery
Ordering Codeine (codeine phosphate) is easy: complete the health questions, pay securely, and after a doctor's approval, the pharmacy ships your treatment.
Yes, a valid prescription is required for Codeine (codeine phosphate). After you complete a short medical questionnaire and payment, a doctor will review your case and provide a prescription if appropriate.
Once the medical review is completed and the prescription for Codeine (codeine phosphate) is confirmed, the pharmacy dispatches your order quickly.
Because Codeine (codeine phosphate) is a prescription medicine, it cannot be returned once approved by a doctor, in line with strict health and pharmacy rules.
