Codeine
Codeine (Phosphate) is the 3-methyl ether of morphine. It can be obtained from opium, present in a concentartion of less than 0.5% or synthesized by methylation of morphine.a narcotic analgesic (relieves the pain without causing sleep). Codeine (Phosphate) is used to relieve mild to moderate pain. it is also used as a cough suppressant.
Primary Characteristics
Codeine is also known as Codeine (Phosphate).
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Opioid.
It belongs to OPIATE agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Analgesic pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 406.4 · pKa: 8.2 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 4 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 325 · Non-proprietary name: Codeine (Phosphate) · pH: 4.4 · Isotonic value: 7.29.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Codeine has an oral bioavailability is 94% (±4%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 50%.
Distribution: Codeine has a volume of distribution is 3.6 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 7-25%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via hepatic, plasma half-life is 3-4 hr, renal excretion is major.
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Indications
Codeine is primarily indicated in conditions like Cough, Diarrhoea, Mild to moderate pain.
Codeine is also indicated for secondary conditions like Anxiety, Control of agitated states in elderly without confusion.
Contraindications
Codeine is contraindicated in conditions like Asthma, Respiratory depression, Raised intracranial pressure.
Dosage
Codeine's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 30 mg | 30 mg | Every 6h | PO | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 250 ug/kg | 250 ug/kg | Every 6h | Oral | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Codeine in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hallucinations .
Codeine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Respiratory depression. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Codeine are Respiratory depression, Circulatory failure, Hypotension, Convulsions , Deepening coma.
Codeine is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Biliary spasm, Bradycardia , Constipation , Dry mouth, Facial flushing, Miosis , Mood changes, Nausea, Palpitation, SweatingX, Ureteric spasm, Vertigo, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Codeine may interfere in the diagnosis of Tests for the estimation of Alkaloids, Morphine and Barbiturates in urine. .
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.2.2 — Opioid analgesics
- 2.17.7.2 — Antidiarrheals