Codeine for diarrhea

Codeine for diarrhea: Symptomatic Drug

Diarrhea can be explained as a frequent, often precipitate passage of poorly formed stools. The WHO defines the condition as 3 or more loose or watery stools in a period of 24-hours. Pathologically, it can be explained as a condition where the excess passage of water occurs in the feces. This article highlights the uses of Codeine for diarrhea.

Diarrhea can be a cause of 

  • Decreased electrolyte and water absorption
  • Increased secretion by the intestinal mucosa
  • Increased luminal osmotic load 
  • Inflammation of mucosa and exudation into the lumen.

The drugs used for such conditions are known as antidiarrheal drugs.

Drug profile- Codeine for diarrhea

ParametersDetails
Category of DrugAn Opioid.
Mechanism of ActionCodeine is an Opioid that has agonist actions on the intestinal opioid receptors, which when activated cause constipation.
Indications Codeine is used for
1. Short-term symptomatic relief of acute diarrhea in adults.
2. Pain
Video explainerWhat is diarrhea?
Well Known
Pharmaceutical Brands
Codeine is mostly available in combination therapy.
Available dosage formsCodeine for diarrhea is available in tablet form. 
DoseCodeine for diarrhea- 30 mg 3 to 4 times daily, in adult- for Symptomatic relief.
StructureThumb
IUPAC Name(4R,4aR,7S,7aR,12bS)-9-methoxy-3-methyl-2,4,4a,7,7a,13-hexahydro-1H-4,12-methanobenzofuro[3,2-e]isoquinolin-7-ol
Molecular detailsMolecular Formula- C18H21NO3
Molecular Weight- 299.4 g/mol (2)
Contraindications 1. Conditions where inhibition of peristalsis should be avoided
2. Abdominal distension
3. Acute diarrhoeal conditions
4. Acute respiratory depression
Precautions 1. Tolerance or dependence may occur with
prolonged use
2. Elderly and debilitated patients
3. Hepatic impairment
4. Renal impairment
5. Lactation
6. Overdosage
7. Pregnancy
8. Interactions
Adverse Effects1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Constipation
4. Drowsiness
5. Respiratory depression and hypotension
6. Dependence
7. Difficulty with micturition
8. Ureteric or biliary spasm
9. Dry mouth
10. Sweating
11. Headache
12. Facial
13. Flushing
14. Vertigo
Pregnancy Category C

References:

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