HUFANO JOHN LLOYD E.

BS, CRIM 4 – ALPHA

DESCRIPTION

Codeine is an opioid pain reliever used to treat mild to moderately severe pain. It is also used, usually in
combination with other medications, to reduce coughing. Codeine is available as a single-ingredient
product, or in combination with acetaminophen or aspirin, and in some cough and cold medications.

FORMS OF ADMINISTRATION

Codeine (alone or in combination with other medications) comes as a tablet, a capsule, and a solution
(liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your
prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not
understand. Take codeine exactly as directed.

If you have taken codeine for several weeks or longer, do not stop taking the medication without talking
to your doctor. Your doctor may decrease your dose gradually. If you suddenly stop taking codeine, you
may experience withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, widened pupils (black circles in the center of
the eyes), teary eyes, irritability, anxiety, runny nose, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, yawning,
sweating, fast breathing, fast heartbeat, chills, hair on your arms standing on end, nausea, loss of
appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, muscle aches, or backache.

Shake the solution well before each use to mix the medication evenly. Do not use a household spoon to
measure your dose. Use the measuring cup or spoon that came with the medication or use a spoon that
is made especially for measuring medication.
 AFFECTS ON HUMAN BODY

Codeine can cause shallow breathing, difficulty or noisy breathing, confusion, more than usual
sleepiness, trouble breastfeeding, or limpness in breastfed infants. if you are having surgery, including
dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking codeine.