Codeine
Opiate prodrug of morphine used for pain and cough.
Codeine is an opiate and prodrug of morphine mainly used to treat pain, coughing, and diarrhea. It is commonly used as a recreational drug. It is found naturally in the sap of the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines and, as of 2013, was the most commonly taken opiate.
- discovered_by
- Pierre Jean Robiquet
- field
- Pharmaceuticals, Opioids
- natural_source
- Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum)
- common_uses
- Pain, coughing, diarrhea
Lore & Background
It occurs naturally and makes up about 2% of opium. It is typically used to treat mild to moderate degrees of pain, and greater benefit may occur when combined with paracetamol or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Evidence does not support its use for acute cough suppression in children, and in Europe it is not recommended as a cough medicine for those under 12 years of age. Codeine is generally taken orally, starting to work after half an hour, with maximum effect at two hours, and effects lasting four to six hours.
Reader's Guide
Codeine is significant as a widely used opioid analgesic and antitussive, but its use is complicated by abuse potential, addiction risk, and genetic variability in metabolism. It works by being broken down by the liver into morphine; how quickly this occurs depends on a person's genetics. Life-threatening intoxication can develop in patients with multiple functional alleles of CYP2D6, resulting in ultrarapid metabolism. The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend its use in children due to side effects, and the FDA lists age under 12 years old as a contraindication. Codeine is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, reflecting its global medical importance despite ongoing safety concerns.
Did You Know?
- Codeine occurs naturally and makes up about 2% of opium.
- Codeine is a prodrug; it is converted by the liver into morphine, which is ten times more potent against the μ-opioid receptor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Codeine?
Codeine is an opiate medication and prodrug that the body converts into morphine. It is primarily prescribed to manage pain, suppress coughing, and treat diarrhea.
How does Codeine work in the body?
As a prodrug, Codeine is metabolized into morphine, which then produces its therapeutic effects. This conversion is what gives it its analgesic and antitussive properties.
Is Codeine used recreationally?
Yes, Codeine is commonly used as a recreational drug in addition to its medical applications. Its opioid effects, including euphoria and sedation, make it a frequent subject in addiction discussions.
More in Addictive Substances & Medications 1-24
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