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 Codeine

Codeine is one of the oldest and pain medications. It is most appropriate for patients who suffer from severe pain. Codeine is available in a variety of forms

• Short acting tablets

• Long acting tablets

• Rectal suppository

• Combined with Tylenol

Codeine has short life span in human body. Once given orally, it acts in half an hour its effect will last for up to four hours. Newer form of long acting Codeine tablets may be effective up to 12 hours. There is no maximum dose for Codeine and it can be increased to as much as is needed and as long as it is tolerated by the patient.

Side effects:

Codeine has some serious side effects. The degree of side effect depends on the amount consumed. Consumption of higher doses of Codeine is associated with more severe side effects:

• Constipation, which can be very severe

• Dryness of the mouth

• Confusion

• Alteration of mental status, Sedation

• Lightheadedness

• Respiratory Depression

• Nausea, Vomiting

• Headache

• Sweating