What does Codeine do?

Key Takeaways

1. What is Codeine: Codeine is an opioid painkiller used to treat moderate to severe pain. It works by blocking pain signals in the brain and spinal cord.

2. Common Uses: Codeine is often prescribed after surgery, for severe injuries, or for chronic pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen.

3. Side Effects: Common side effects include tiredness, nausea, and constipation. However, codeine can also cause more serious side effects like low blood pressure or muscle stiffness.

What is Codeine?

Codeine is a medication belonging to the opioid class of drugs, commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain. It works by affecting the central nervous system, particularly by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. This helps block pain signals from reaching the brain, thus relieving pain.

Besides pain relief, codeine is also used in cough syrups and diarrhoea treatments. However, it is most often prescribed for post-surgery pain or chronic pain that has not responded to other pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. It is considered stronger than standard painkillers but not as potent as other opioids such as morphine.

How to Take Codeine

Codeine is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and syrups. If you have been prescribed codeine tablets, here’s how to take them:

• Dosage: The usual dose is one or two tablets every four to six hours, depending on the severity of your pain. However, the exact dosage should always follow your doctor's prescription.

• How to take it: Swallow the tablets whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets as this can affect the absorption and reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

• For Diarrhoea: Codeine can also be taken to treat diarrhoea, typically in the same dosage (one or two tablets as needed).

It’s important to note that you should not take codeine for longer than prescribed due to the risk of dependence.

What Are the Common Side Effects of Codeine?

Like all medications, codeine may cause side effects, though most are manageable. Common side effects include:

• Tiredness

• Nausea

• Constipation

• Dizziness or vertigo

• Dry mouth

• Headaches

• Confusion

These side effects tend to occur in the initial stages of treatment and may subside over time. If any of these side effects become persistent or bothersome, contact your doctor for further advice.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Codeine?

While rare, some serious side effects can occur with codeine use. If you experience any of the following, you should seek immediate medical attention:

• Symptoms of low blood pressure (such as dizziness or fainting)

• Muscle stiffness

• Severe allergic reactions (such as swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing)

These serious effects are uncommon, but it's important to be aware of them.

Is Codeine Addictive?

Yes, codeine can be addictive, especially when used for long periods or when used in higher doses than prescribed. Because it is an opioid, codeine has the potential to lead to dependence and addiction if not used properly.

If you have been prescribed codeine for long-term use, it is crucial to follow your doctor’s guidance carefully. If you have concerns about becoming dependent or have a history of substance misuse, speak to your doctor for alternative pain management options.

Can You Take Paracetamol or Ibuprofen with Codeine?

Yes, you can safely take paracetamol or ibuprofen along with codeine. In fact, many combination medications such as co-codamol are available that combine codeine with paracetamol to enhance pain relief. However, do not take more than one medication containing codeine simultaneously, such as taking codeine along with Nurofen Plus (which already contains codeine), as this increases the risk of overdose and side effects.

Final Thoughts

Codeine is an effective pain relief option for moderate to severe pain, especially when other over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen do not work. However, due to its potential for dependence, it should only be taken as prescribed. While codeine can be combined with other pain relievers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, it is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and avoid taking multiple codeine-containing medications at once.

If you're unsure about how to use codeine or if you're concerned about its side effects, speak to a healthcare professional for guidance. PharmXtra offers codeine-based medications through an easy and accessible online consultation process to ensure that you receive the right treatment for your pain management needs.