CODEINE SUSTAINED ACTION - ORAL side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

CODEINE SUSTAINED ACTION-ORAL Index

CODEINE SUSTAINED ACTION-ORAL

Surprising Reasons You're in Pain Slideshow Pictures

Back Pain Myths and Facts Slideshow

Take the Pain Quiz!

GENERIC NAME: CODEINE SUSTAINED ACTION - ORAL (KO-deen)

USES: This medication is a narcotic used to relieve mild to moderate pain. Codeine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, therefore relieving pain.

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to control cough.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. Do not crush or chew the tablets. All strengths of this medicine may be carefully split in half except the 50 mg strength. You may take this drug with or without food. If you have nausea, you may take this drug with food, although doing so may decrease its effectiveness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about alternatives for decreasing nausea (e.g., antihistamines, lying down for 1-2 hours with minimal head movement). The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Pain medications work best in relieving pain before it becomes severe. Once the pain becomes intense, the medication is not as effective in relieving it. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period of time, do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, flushing, sweating, vision changes, or mental/mood changes may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: slow/irregular breathing, slow/irregular heartbeat, change in the amount of urine. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: severe breathing problems (e.g., respiratory depression, hypercapnia), severe diarrhea (e.g., pseudomembranous colitis, infectious diarrhea due to toxins). Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, difficulty urinating (e.g., enlarged prostate, urethral stricture), alcohol use, drug dependency, heart problems (e.g., slow/irregular heartbeat, very low blood pressure), stomach/abdominal problems (e.g., gallbladder disease), lung disease (e.g., asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), seizure disorders, serious head injury or brain disease, spinal problems (kyphoscoliosis), low thyroid disease (hypothyroidism), adrenal gland problems (Addison's disease), psychiatric problems (toxic psychosis), any allergies (especially to codeine or codeine-like medications). This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug, especially the possible decreased breathing, dizziness, and drowsiness effect. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. It is not recommended for use for long periods or in high doses near the expected delivery day because of the potential for fetal harm. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.