Codeine

Codeine- Popular brands and Pharmacology

Codeine is an opioid analgesic. Weaker opioid, such as codeine, is suitable for mild to moderate pain. This is much less potent than morphine and much less liable in normal doses. It produces adverse effects, including dependency. It is effective for mild to moderate pain but is too constipating for long-term use.

ParametersDescription
Category of DrugAn Opioid Analgesics 
Mechanism of ActionCodeine is a weak narcotic pain (1) reliever and cough suppressant. Its action is similar to morphine and hydrocodone—part of codeine converts to morphine in the body. Codeine binds to opioid receptors, which are responsible for transmitting the sensation of pain throughout the body and brain. Thus, codeine increases tolerance to pain.
Indications1. Mild to moderate pain
2. Diarrhea
3. Cough
4. Suppressant
5. Irritable bowel syndrome.
Well Known
Pharmaceutical Brands
Codeine is mostly available in combination therapy.
Available dosage forms1. TABLET
2. SYRUP
Dose 1. Adult- 30 to 60 mg every 4 h. (max. 240 mg/day)
2. Children- 3 mg/kg daily in divided doses.
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
1. The maximum plasma concentration- 60 minutes
2. Vd- 3-6 L/kg
3. Protein binding- 7-25%
4. Metabolism- 70 to 80% in the liver (codeine-6­ glucuronide)
5. Route of elimination- 90% by the kidneys.
6. Plasma half-life- 3 hours
Molecular detailsMolecular Formula- C18H21NO3
Molecular Weight- 299.4 g/mol (2)
Contraindications1. Respiratory depression
2. Obstructive airways disease
3. Acute asthma attack
4. Where the risk of paralytic ileus
5. Hypersensitivity
6. Head injury
7. Increased intracranial pressure.
Precautions1. Hepatic impairment
2. Opioids dependence
3. lactation
4. Overdosage
5. Pregnancy
6. Interactions
Adverse Effects1. Constipation
2. Dizziness
3. Nausea
4. Vomiting
5. Difficulty with micturition
6. Ureteric or biliary spasm
7. Orthostatic hypotension
8. Respiratory depression;
Pregnancy Category C

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