Information About The Drug Codeine
Summary: Codeine is a powerful drug which can be found in many medicines for relieving minor aches and cough. It is available in syrup and tablet form.
Codeine is a weak pain reliever and cough medicine which is similar to morphine. It is a pain reliever derived from the opium poppy plant. The body actually converts a small amount of it into morphine. It works by binding the opioid receptors in the brain which transmit pain signals from the brain to the body. This increases the level of pain tolerance in the patient and decreases their discomfort. However, it does not completely relieve the pain and the patient can still feel it. It is combined with other medicines to make it more effective.
Codeine is also known as Codeine phosphate, codeine sulfate and methyl morphine. It is also unofficially known by many names such as T-threes, coties, etc. Doctors prescribe this pill with other medication for pain relief after minor surgery, broken bones, sprains, migraines and other minor pains. It only relieves the symptoms and does not treat the cause. It is more commonly found in cough syrups. This drug is not prescribed for those below the age of 16. Codeine comes in tablet, capsule and syrup form. It should only be taken in the measurement prescribed by your doctor.
Before taking Codeine, inform your doctor if you are allergic to it or under any other type of medication. It is also important to mention any type of surgery, illness or disease you may have had. Limit or stop your intake of Codeine if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Codeine is shown to be absorbed in breast milk and can be quiet harmful to your child. Codeine is also known to make a person drowsy, lightheaded and may cause dizziness and fainting. Thus avoid taking this medicine when driving, taking care of a child etc. Avoid taking alcohol when under this medication.
Codeine use can be quite addictive and habit forming and thus in most countries such as the United States, a prescription is required for this drug. Codeine is said to create a feeling of extreme happiness and well being. However, when the effects wear off, it can cause the user to feel depressed and nervous. This leads to addiction. It is quite easy to obtain Codeine legally as it is available in many cough syrups. Overdosing on codeine can be fatal as it can cause a patient to stop breathing. If you have forgotten one dose, take it as soon as your remember but avoid it if you are close to your next dose.
