Codeine

Opioid painkiller and cough suppressant
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Codeine is a opioid painkiller and cough suppressant. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: codeine phosphate

What it is used for

Relieves moderate pain (often combined with paracetamol or ibuprofen) and suppresses dry cough.

How it works

An opioid that the liver turns into morphine; used for mild to moderate pain and dry cough. Some people convert too much (risky) or too little.

How to take it

Usually 15 to 60 mg every 4 to 6 hours, maximum 240 mg a day, for no more than 3 days without review.

Common side effects

  • Constipation
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness

Get medical help straight away if

  • Slow breathing, extreme sleepiness, pinpoint pupils
  • Confusion

Be careful

Can cause drowsiness, constipation and dependence; not for children under 12. Avoid alcohol.

Other medicines and interactions

Very dangerous with alcohol, benzodiazepines and other sedatives. Can be habit-forming. Not for children under 12.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid in pregnancy, especially near birth. Not recommended while breastfeeding (some mothers produce high morphine levels in milk).

Common questions

What is Codeine used for?

Relieves moderate pain (often combined with paracetamol or ibuprofen) and suppresses dry cough.

How does Codeine work?

An opioid that the liver turns into morphine; used for mild to moderate pain and dry cough. Some people convert too much (risky) or too little.

How should I take Codeine?

Usually 15 to 60 mg every 4 to 6 hours, maximum 240 mg a day, for no more than 3 days without review.

What are the side effects of Codeine?

Common: Constipation, drowsiness, nausea, dizziness. Get help straight away for: Slow breathing, extreme sleepiness, pinpoint pupils, confusion.

Does Codeine interact with other medicines?

Very dangerous with alcohol, benzodiazepines and other sedatives. Can be habit-forming. Not for children under 12.

Is Codeine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Avoid in pregnancy, especially near birth. Not recommended while breastfeeding (some mothers produce high morphine levels in milk).

Does Codeine need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.