Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names:

Generic Name: codeine (Pronunciation: KOE deen)

• What is codeine ()?
• What are the possible side effects of codeine ()?
• What is the most important information I should know about codeine ()?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking codeine ()?
• How should I take codeine ()?
• What happens if I miss a dose ()?
• What happens if I overdose ()?
• What should I avoid while taking codeine ()?
• What other drugs will affect codeine ()?
• Where can I get more information?

What is codeine ()?

Codeine is in a group of drugs called narcotic pain medicines.

Codeine is used to treat mild to moderate pain.

Codeine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Codeine Phosphate 30 mg-RAN

round, white

Codeine Sulfate 15 mg-ROX

round, white, imprinted with 54 613

Codeine Sulfate 30 mg-ROX

round, white, imprinted with 54 783

Codeine Sulfate 60 mg-ROX

round, white, imprinted with 54 412

What are the possible side effects of codeine ()?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• shallow breathing, slow heartbeat;
• feeling light-headed, fainting;
• confusion, agitation, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;
• seizure (convulsions); or
• problems with urination.

Less serious side effects include:

• feeling dizzy or drowsy;
• nausea, vomiting, constipation;
• sweating;
• headache;
• trouble sleeping (insomnia);
• loss of interest in sex;
• dry mouth;
• blurred vision; or
• mild skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about codeine ()?

Codeine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Codeine should never be given to another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

Do not drink alcohol while you are taking codeine. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with a narcotic pain medicine. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol.

Never take more than your prescribed dose of codeine. Tell your doctor if the medicine seems to stop working as well in relieving your pain.

Codeine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Do not stop using codeine suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication.