Codeine: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions
Brand names: Codeine sulfate
# Codeine: What You Need to Know Codeine is a pain reliever medicine that doctors prescribe to help people feel better when they have mild to moderate pain. It works by changing how your body feels and responds to pain. Some doctors also use codeine in cough medicines to help reduce coughing. This medicine is strong and can be very helpful, but it needs to be used carefully and only as your doctor tells you to use it. There are some important safety things to know about codeine. First, codeine can be habit-forming, which means your body might become dependent on it if you take it for too long. Never take more than your doctor prescribes, and tell your doctor if you have ever had problems with drugs or alcohol. Also, be careful if you're taking other medicines, because some drugs don't work well with codeine and can make it more dangerous. You should always tell your doctor and pharmacist about every medicine you take. Common side effects include feeling drowsy, dizzy, or constipated. Never drive or operate machinery after taking codeine until you know how it affects you. If you have questions about whether codeine is right for you, always ask your doctor or pharmacist first.
Taking Codeine with other medications?
Check Codeine against any other medication — the form below is already pre-filled.
Check Now ↓Most Reported Side Effects (FAERS)
- DEPENDENCE6,571 reports
- OVERDOSE2,521 reports
- PAIN2,464 reports
- DRUG INEFFECTIVE2,297 reports
- FATIGUE2,251 reports
- ARTHRALGIA2,186 reports
- RASH1,866 reports
- DYSPNOEA1,809 reports
- DRUG HYPERSENSITIVITY1,782 reports
- OFF LABEL USE1,778 reports
Source: FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Voluntary reports do not establish causation.
Recent Recalls (1)
- Class III
PAI Holdings, LLC. dba Pharmaceutical Associates Inc · January 7, 2025
Guaifenesin and Codeine Phosphate Oral Solution USP, 100mg/10 mg per 5 mL, 16 fl oz (473 ml) bottles, PAI Pharmaceutical Associates, Inc., Greenville, SC 29605, NDC 0121-0775-16Superpotent; sodium benzoate preservative
Source: FDA (openFDA Drug Enforcement). Voluntary and mandated recalls affecting this drug.
Check interactions with Codeine:
SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.