Codeine for pain relief

About codeine

Codeine is a type of opioid (a strong painkiller) that is used to treat mild-to-moderate types of pain. It can be particularly useful when painkillers such as paracetamol y ibuprofeno have not been effective.

Codeine works by binding to certain tiny areas, called opioid receptors, in your central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). This leads to a decrease in the way you feel pain and your reaction to pain.

Codeine is available with a prescription from a doctor. It is also included in some pain relief medicines you can buy directly from a pharmacy without a prescription. One example is co-codamol, which contains codeine combined with paracetamol.

Codeine is also combined with the anti-inflammatory medicine ibuprofeno in some over-the-counter products.

Common side effects of codeine include:

• Náuseas.

• Estar enfermo (vómitos).

• Estreñimiento.

• Sentirse mareado.

• Feeling sleepy.

• Stomach (tummy) pain.

• Boca seca.

• Sudoración.

Encontrará una lista completa en el prospecto del fabricante que se suministra con su medicamento.

Los efectos no deseados a menudo mejoran a medida que su cuerpo se adapta al nuevo medicamento, pero hable con su médico o farmacéutico si algún efecto secundario persiste o se vuelve problemático.

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions. Before starting codeine it is important that your doctor knows:

• Si estás embarazada o amamantando.

• Si tienes un problema con el funcionamiento de tu hígado, o un problema con el funcionamiento de tus riñones.

• Si tienes problemas de próstata o alguna dificultad para orinar.

• Si tienes algún problema respiratorio, como asma o enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC).

• Si te han dicho que tienes baja presión arterial or an abnormal heart rhythm.

• Si tienes algún problema con tu tiroides o glándulas suprarrenales.

• Si tienes epilepsia.

• If you have gallstones or a problem with your bile duct.

• Si has estado estreñido por más de una semana o tienes un problema inflamatorio intestinal.

• Si tienes una condición que causa debilidad muscular, llamada miastenia gravis.

• Si recientemente has tenido una lesión grave en la cabeza.

• Si alguna vez has sido dependiente de las drogas o el alcohol.

• Si alguna vez has tenido una reacción alérgica a un medicamento.

• Si está tomando otros medicamentos. Esto incluye cualquier medicamento que esté tomando y que esté disponible para comprar sin receta, así como medicamentos herbales y complementarios.
  

• Read the leaflet inside the pack before you start. It explains how codeine works and lists possible side effects.

• Take codeine exactly as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist.

  • The usual dose for pain is 30-60 mg every 4 hours if needed.

• Do not take it more often than every 4 hours and do not exceed 240 mg in one day.

• Codeine tablets come in different strengths, always check the label to see how many tablets to take.

• Swallow the tablets with water. You can take them with or without food, but taking them after food may help prevent feeling sick.

• If you forget a dose, take it when you remember, then continue as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time para compensar una dosis olvidada.

• Do not drink alcohol while taking codeine. Alcohol can increase side effects such as dizziness and sleepiness.

• Codeine can affect your reactions and driving ability. Do not drive until you know how codeine affects you, especially when you first start taking it. The effects of codeine may last into the next day, even if you feel alert.

• If you are driving while taking codeine, carry proof that it has been prescribed for you (such as the patient leaflet or a prescription slip).

• Codeine is prescribed for the shortest time needed to reduce the risk of dependence and building a tolerance.

• Stopping codeine suddenly after taking it for a while can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as feeling restless or irritable.

• If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking codeine.

If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with codeine.

• Mantenga todos los medicamentos fuera del alcance y la vista de los niños.

• Almacenar en un lugar fresco y seco, lejos del calor y la luz directos.

How long does it take for codeine to work?

Codeine usually starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it, with pain relief typically lasting for around 4 hours. How quickly it works however can vary from person to person.

Is it safe to take codeine during pregnancy?

Codeine can be taken during pregnancy but only for short-term use. It is not recommended during the third trimester as there is a risk that your baby will get used to having codeine and could have withdrawal symptoms.

Can you drink alcohol with codeine?

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking codeine. Alcohol increases the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, slowed breathing, and impaired judgement.

Can you take codeine with paracetamol?

Yes, you can take codeine and paracetamol together. They are commonly combined in a medicine called co-codamol. Taking them together can provide better pain relief than either medicine alone.

Is codeine addictive?

Yes, codeine can be addictive if taken regularly or for long periods. Your body can become dependent on it, and stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness or irritability. For this reason, codeine is usually prescribed for short-term use only.