Codeine Phosphate 20mg belongs to a group of medicines called opioid analgesics, which are used for the relief of pain of varying intensity. CODEINE is highly effective for the treatment of mild to moderate pains caused by surgery, illness, or injuries. It is used by individuals who don’t experience pain relief after taking common painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen. The medicine reduces the intensity of pain experienced by the patient and improves patient comfort.
CODEINE is an opioid analgesic with a chemical structure similar to that of morphine. It is, however, much less potent as an analgesic than morphine and it causes mild sedation only. The medication binds to opioid receptors, which are present throughout the central nervous system, to produce analgesia, sedation, and a feeling of relaxation. Codeine is also used for the treatment of diarrhoea because of its ability to reduce intestinal motility.
For the relief of pain, healthy adult individuals may take Codeine in doses of 15mg to 60mg up to 4 times a day. The maximum recommended daily dose of Codeine is 240 mg. For non-productive/dry cough, codeine Can be taken in doses of 10mg to 20mg every 4 to 6 hours, with total daily dose not exceeding 120mg. For diarrhoea, 20mg to 60mg of codeine should be taken 3 to 4 times a day.
Codeine 20mg should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. CODEINE 20mg tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water.
Take Codeine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.
Drink 6 to 8 full glasses of water daily to help prevent constipation while you are taking Codeine. Do not use a stool softener (laxative) without first asking your doctor.
Do not stop using codeine suddenly after long-term use, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop using this medicine.
CODEINE, when used in accordance with the recommended dosage, is a safe and effective medicine. However, there are some side effects associated with the use of codeine which have been listed here for the consumer's benefit.
While side effects arising from the use of codeine are usually not experienced at normal doses, it is important that you immediately consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms after using this medication.
Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with CODEINE. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol.
Codeine may impair your thinking or reactions. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you. Dizziness or severe drowsiness can cause falls or other accidents.
Since Codeine is used for pain, you are not likely to miss a dose. Skip any missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Seek emergency medical attention! A CODEINE overdose can be fatal, especially in a child. Overdose symptoms may include slow breathing and heart rate, severe drowsiness, muscle weakness, cold and clammy skin, pinpoint pupils, and fainting.
Codeine Phosphate 20mg has to be stored at a room temperature of not more than 77 degrees F, equivalent to 25 degrees C. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Codeine out of the reach of children and away from pets.