Codeine
Codeine is a weak opioid used for short-term pain relief in some situations and appears in combination products with paracetamol (co-codamol) or ibuprofen when prescribed. It is converted to morphine in the liver at variable rates between people.
This medicine is part of the Pain relief category.
Generic name: codeine
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Codeine is a weak opioid used for short-term pain relief in some situations and appears in combination products with paracetamol (co-codamol) or ibuprofen when prescribed.
How long does it take to work?
Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review.
What are common side effects?
Constipation, nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, and itching.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Codeine with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
More about what Codeine is used for
Codeine is a weak opioid used for short-term pain relief in some situations and appears in combination products with Paracetamol (Co-codamol) or Ibuprofen when prescribed.
It is converted to Morphine in the liver at variable rates between people.
How does Codeine work, and how long does it take to work?
It binds opioid receptors, reducing pain perception and cough reflex in some formulations.
Effectiveness varies — some people get little pain benefit due to genetics.
How and when should you take Codeine?
Take exactly as prescribed — do not exceed stated doses on combination packs.
Constipation prevention with fluids, fibre, or laxatives may be advised.
What are the common side effects of Codeine?
Constipation, nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, and itching.
Serious side effects of Codeine — when to get urgent help
Seek urgent help for severe breathing slowing, confusion, blue lips, or allergic reaction. Overdose risk rises with alcohol and benzodiazepines.
What if you miss a dose of Codeine?
Take when needed for pain within maximum daily limits; do not double.
Who should not take Codeine?
Acute asthma attack, head injury with raised intracranial pressure risk, and children after certain surgeries historically — follow current MHRA advice for age.
Breastfeeding is usually avoided because codeine metabolites can affect infants.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Codeine? — other interactions
Benzodiazepines, gabapentinoids, other opioids, and alcohol are dangerous together. MAOIs and some antidepressants increase serotonin toxicity risk with Tramadol-like combinations.
Codeine in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Discuss with your prescriber — use near delivery can affect newborn breathing.
Blood tests and monitoring on Codeine
Short courses for acute pain; review if use extends beyond a few days.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Codeine?
Paracetamol, Ibuprofen if suitable, or physiotherapy-led approaches may reduce opioid need.
Reviewed by UK registered pharmacists
Reviewed by UK registered pharmacists for accuracy and clarity. Content is informational only.
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Frequently asked questions about Codeine
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Codeine used for?
- Codeine is a weak opioid used for short-term pain relief in some situations and appears in combination products with Paracetamol (Co-codamol) or Ibuprofen when prescribed. It is converted to Morphine in the liver at variable rates between people.
- How long does Codeine take to work?
- Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Codeine with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Codeine with Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
- What are the side effects of Codeine?
- Constipation, nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, and itching. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Why does codeine not work for me?
- Some people metabolise codeine poorly to Morphine and feel little effect; others metabolise quickly and get more side effects — pharmacogenetics can matter.
- Can I drive on codeine?
- Drowsiness varies — do not drive until you know how you respond and if the label warns against operating machinery.
Need personalised advice?
Your local pharmacist or GP surgery can help with questions about your medicines, side effects, and alternatives that may be suitable for you.
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Often used with
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