Codeine

Different Uses of Codeine Tablets

Codeine is commonly used to treat mild to moderate pain in children and adults, but it is also effective in providing relief from other conditions, such as coughing and diarrhoea.

It can be used as:

• An alternative for milder pain relief medication, especially in instances where paracetamol, ibuprofen or other analgesics are ineffective.
• A replacement, especially when reducing dependency from stronger pain relief medication such as morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl and other opioids.

How are Dihydrocodeine and Co-Codamol Different?

Dihydrocodeine and co-codamol are pain-relief medications known as opioids, used as an alternative to codeine. The main difference is that co-codamol is commonly used to treat milder to moderate pain, while dihydrocodeine is used to treat more severe pain.

As co-codamol 30 500 contains both codeine and paracetamol, it is not recommended or necessary to use other medications that contain paracetamol while taking the tablet. There are also minor differences in the usage and dosage, which include:

Dihydrocodeine Tablets 30 mg

• Active Ingredient: dihydrocodeine tartrate.
• Uses: You can buy dihydrocodeine online to treat moderate to severe pain, mostly after surgery, chronic pain and other conditions including shortness of breath and coughing.
• Dosage: One dihydrocodeine 30 mg tablet every 4 to 6 hours, up to 6 times a day.

Co-codamol 30 500

• Active ingredient: codeine phosphate 30 mg, paracetamol 500mg.
• Uses: You can buy co-codamol online to treat moderate pain and aches such as headaches, muscle pain and toothache, especially in cases where paracetamol does not provide sufficient relief from pain.
• Dosage: One to two 30/500mg co-codamol tablets up to 4 times a day, not exceeding 8 tablets within 24 hours.

What are the Codeine Side Effects?

As a pain relief medication, codeine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain; all of which can be managed and controlled by following the recommended dosage, usage and management guidelines.

Other less common side effects may include, but are not limited to:

• Uncomfortable or troublesome breathing.
• Extreme changes in moods or feelings (happiness, sadness, anxiety).
• Itching or other signs of an allergic reaction (hives, swelling).

What is the Recommended Codeine Dosage?

The recommended dosage varies between 15 to 60 mg taken orally and repeated every four to six hours or three to four times per day, as necessary. The specific dosage depends on the usage and user.

For pain relief:

• Adults (18 years and older): 30-60 mg every 4 hours.

For diarrhoea:

• Adults (18 years and older): 15-60 mg, 3 to 4 times a day (tablets may be split to achieve a 15 mg dose).

For cough:

• Adults (18 years and older): 15-30 mg, 3 to 4 times a day.

For all uses:

• Dosage is based on a short-term use of codeine phosphate 30 mg or 60 mg tablets up to 3 days and a maximum daily dosage of 240mg, unless otherwise advised.
• Dosage for the elderly (older than 65 years) can be equivalent to the recommended dosages for adults. However, this should be reduced if the user has conditions relating to a weakened or damaged liver or kidneys.

Warnings and Precautions before using Codeine

Before using codeine phosphate 30 mg tablets and related codeine medication, it is important to notify your medical practitioner of any medical conditions you may have or medications you are using because codeine should not be used if certain conditions are present, such as:

• Allergy to codeine or any of the ingredients found in the codeine tablets.
• Breathing disorders such as respiratory depression.
• Ultra-metabolising of codeine.
• Pregnancy.

It is important to monitor your condition when the medication is first administered or when the dosage is increased. If misused or abused, users are at risk of opioid overdose or dependency. In case of any severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Can I Buy Codeine Online?

You can buy codeine phosphate online from us - a registered pharmacy that offers a range of FDA-approved medications and treatments. Tablets are available as licensed generic brands to suit your individual medical savings budget and plan.

The online ordering process has been simplified, allowing you, the patient, to easily place an order from the comfort of your home, office or wherever you are. Products are usually dispatched within 24 hours, to arrive at your doorstep or chosen address in the quickest turnaround time.

Once registered on the website, customers’ details will be securely stored and can be used when ordering again, saving you time and making the ordering process easier. Online customers also have access to a panel of medical experts and customer support agents for consultation and advice. This quick and convenient service is available 24/7.

You can buy codeine products with confidence, knowing that we source products from leading manufacturers that provide quality FDA-approved medication.

Last Reviewed: 10th July 2024
Next Review Due: August 2025