Drug Groups

illicit; approved

Description

An opioid analgesic related to morphine but with less potent analgesic properties and mild sedative effects. It also acts centrally to suppress cough. [PubChem]

Indication

For treatment and management of pain (Systemic), also used as an Antidiarrheal and as a cough suppressant.

Pharmacology

Codeine, an opiate agonist in the CNS, is similar to other phenanthrene derivatives such as morphine. Codeine, in combination with guaifenesin or iodinated glycerol, is used as a cough suppressant and, as a single agent or in combination with acetaminophen or other products, is used for pain control and as an antidiarrheal agent.

Toxicity

Respiratory depression, sedation and miosis and common symptoms of overdose. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, skeletal muscle flaccidity, bradycardia, hypotension, and cool, clammy skin. Apnea and death may ensue.

Affected Organisms

Biotransformation

Hepatic. Codeine is a prodrug, itself inactive, but demethylated to the active morphine by the liver enzyme CYP2D6.

Absorption

Well absorbed following oral administration with a bioavailability of approximately 90%.

Half Life

2-4 hours

Protein Binding

7-25%

References

External Links