Codeine Side Effects

More Common Codeine Side Effects Include Headache, Nausea, Drowsiness

Some people have no side effects when taking codeine, but others may experience mild to severe symptoms that can depend on a number of factors. Sometimes, it has to do with the dosage or whether codeine is interacting with another substance. For others, it depends on their individual chemistry. Many people experience very mild symptoms that pass quickly once the body becomes used to the presence of medication.

Codeine is a narcotic medication that is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in the opium poppy plant. It can also be synthesized from morphine. It is prescribed for pain relief, cough suppression, and to a lesser degree, diarrhea. It is often combined with other ingredients such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, two non-narcotic analgesics that boost the effectiveness of codeine.

Codeine Is A Milder Opiate But Can Cause Some Serious Problems

Codeine is a milder opiate when compared to others such as oxycodone and hydrocodone. It has less of a potential for abuse and addiction. But these are still concerns. Taking any narcotic medication for a prolonged period can result in habituation. Opiate dependence and addiction are very serious problems in this country, so it's always important to take these medications as prescribed.

Codeine side effects that are more common include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nervousness/Anxiety
• Excitability
• Weakness
• Inability to sleep

These less common side effects can be more serious and may require emergency assistance. Call 911 if any of these develop:

• Severe allergic reaction (rash, hives, swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat)
• Difficult breathing
• Chest tightening
• Difficult urination
• Irregular heart beat (fast or slow)
• Hallucinations
• Seizures
• Severe dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Tremors
• Severe drowsiness
• Severe headaches

Side effects can also vary depending on whether the codeine is mixed with another medication and depending on the dosage. The above list is not a complete list of possible side effects. Talk to your doctor if you develop other symptoms that don't appear in this list.