What does it do?

Codeine is used to relieve pain, and sometimes for other conditions such as diarrhoea.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have bowel or kidney problems, or have had a recent head injury.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take codeine as directed with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food.

What if you forget a dose?

If codeine is taken regularly and it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with codeine including:

• cough suppressants (e.g. Duro-Tuss®, Benadryl Dry Forte®)
• sedating antihistamines (e.g. Phenergan®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Slow or shallow breathing, hard to wake up	Tell your doctor immediately
Confusion, mood changes Tummy pain (new or getting worse)	Tell your doctor
Constipation	Take your prescribed laxatives. Tell your doctor
Drowsiness, dizziness Nausea, vomiting, dry mouth or throat Sweating	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Codeine can be taken regularly or when required. If codeine is not relieving your pain contact your health professional.
• Codeine may be used with other pain relievers (e.g. paracetamol).
• Codeine can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)
• Codeine may be addictive with long-term use.
• If you have been taking codeine regularly for a long time, talk to your doctor before stopping.