Codeine is a potent analgesic of the opioid group that can be used to relieve moderate pain and has an antitussive effect, since it blocks the cough reflex at the brain level.
It may be marketed under the names Codein, Belacodid, Codaten and Codex, and in addition to being used separately, it may also be consumed in conjunction with other simple analgesics, such as Dipirone or Paracetamol, for example to potentiate its effect.
This medicine can be bought in pharmacies, in the form of tablets, syrup or injectable ampoule, for a price of about 25 to 35 reais, upon presentation of a prescription.
What is it for
Codeine is an opioid analgesic remedy, which is indicated for:
- Treatment of pain of moderate intensity or that does not improve with other simpler analgesics. In addition, to enhance its effect, Codeine is usually marketed in conjunction with dipyrone or paracetamol, for example.
- Treatment of dry cough, in some cases, as it has the effect of reducing the cough reflex.
See other remedies that can be used for the treatment of dry cough.
How to use
For analgesic effect in adults, Codeine should be used at the dose of 30 mg or the dose indicated by the doctor every 4 to 6 hours and should not exceed the maximum dose of 360 mg per day.
For children, the recommended dose is 0.5 to 1 mg / kg body weight every 4 to 6 hours.
For relief of cough, a lower dose is used, which can be between 10 to 20 mg every 4 or 6 hours for adults and children over 6 years.
Side effects
Some side effects of using Codeine include drowsiness, constipation, abdominal pain, sweating and confused senses.
Who should not use
The use of Codeine is contraindicated in people who are allergic to any component of the formula, in pregnancy, in children under 3 years of age, people with acute respiratory depression, diarrhea caused by poisoning and associated with pseudomembranous colitis or cough with expectoration.
