Codeine exposes patients and other users to the risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. Assess each patient's risk prior to prescribing codeine and monitor all patients regularly for the development of these behaviors and conditions.
To ensure that the benefits of opioid analgesics outweigh the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has required a REMS for these products. Under the requirements of the REMS, drug companies with approved opioid analgesic products must make REMS-compliant education programs available to health care providers. Health care providers are strongly encouraged to complete a REMS-compliant education program; counsel patients and/or their caregivers, with every prescription, on safe use, serious risks, storage, and disposal of these products; emphasize to patients and their caregivers the importance of reading the Medication Guide every time it is provided by their pharmacist; and consider other tools to improve patient, household, and community safety.
Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of codeine. Monitor for respiratory depression, especially during initiation of codeine or following a dose increase.
Accidental ingestion of even one dose of codeine, especially by children, can result in a fatal overdose of codeine.
Life-threatening respiratory depression and death have occurred in children who received codeine. Most of the reported cases occurred following tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy and many of the children had evidence of being ultra-rapid metabolizers of codeine due to a CYP2D6 polymorphism. Codeine is contraindicated in pediatric patients <12 years of age and in pediatric patients <18 years of age following tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. Avoid the use of codeine in pediatric patients 12 to 18 years of age who have other risk factors that may increase their sensitivity to the respiratory depressant effects of codeine.
Prolonged use of codeine during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available.
The effects of concomitant use or discontinuation of cytochrome P450 3A4 inducers, 3A4 inhibitors, or 2D6 inhibitors with codeine are complex. Use of cytochrome P450 3A4 inducers, 3A4 inhibitors, or 2D6 inhibitors with codeine requires careful consideration of the effects on the parent drug, codeine, and the active metabolite morphine.
Concomitant use of opioids with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of codeine and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Pain management (analgesic):
Injection [Canadian product]:
Opioid-naive patients: IM, SUBQ: 30 to 60 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed (use the lowest effective dose for the shortest period of time necessary)
Conversion from oral codeine or another opioid: IM, SUBQ: Refer to product labeling for dose conversions.
Oral: Note: These are guidelines and do not represent the maximum doses that may be required in all patients. Doses should be titrated to pain relief/prevention.
Immediate release (tablet, oral solution [Canadian product]): Initial: 15 to 60 mg every 4 hours as needed; maximum total daily dose: 360 mg/day; patients with prior opioid exposure may require higher initial doses.
Controlled release: Codeine Contin [Canadian product]: Note: Titrate at intervals of ≥48 hours until adequate analgesia has been achieved. Daily doses >600 mg/day should not be used; patients requiring higher doses should be switched to an opioid approved for use in severe pain. In patients who receive both Codeine Contin and an immediate release or combination codeine product for breakthrough pain, the rescue dose of immediate release codeine product should be ≤12.5% of the total daily Codeine Contin dose.
Opioid-naive patients: Initial: 50 mg every 12 hours
Conversion from immediate release codeine preparations: Immediate release codeine preparations contain ~75% codeine base. Therefore, patients who are switching from immediate release codeine preparations may be transferred to a ~25% lower total daily dose of Codeine Contin, equally divided into 2 daily doses every 12 hours.
Conversion from a combination codeine product (eg, codeine with acetaminophen or aspirin): See table:
|
Number of 30 mg Codeine Combination Tablets Daily |
Initial Dose of Codeine Contin |
Maintenance Dose of Codeine Contina |
|---|---|---|
|
a Titrate at intervals of ≥48 hours until adequate analgesia has been achieved. | ||
|
≤6 |
50 mg every 12 hours |
100 mg every 12 hours |
|
7 to 9 |
100 mg every 12 hours |
150 mg every 12 hours |
|
10 to 12 |
150 mg every 12 hours |
200 mg every 12 hours |
|
>12 |
200 mg every 12 hours |
200 to 300 mg every 12 hours (maximum: 300 mg every 12 hours) |
Conversion from another opioid analgesic: Using the patient's current opioid dose, calculate an equivalent daily dose of immediate release codeine. A ~25% lower dose of Codeine Contin should then be initiated, equally divided into 2 daily doses.
Discontinuation of therapy: When discontinuing chronic opioid therapy, the dose should be gradually tapered down. An optimal universal tapering schedule for all patients has not been established (CDC [Dowell 2016]). Proposed schedules range from slow (eg, 10% reductions per week) to rapid (eg, 25% to 50% reduction every few days) (CDC 2015). Tapering schedules should be individualized to minimize opioid withdrawal while considering patient-specific goals and concerns as well as the pharmacokinetics of the opioid being tapered. An even slower taper may be appropriate in patients who have been receiving opioids for a long duration (eg, years), particularly in the final stage of tapering, whereas more rapid tapers may be appropriate in patients experiencing severe adverse events (CDC [Dowell 2016]). Monitor carefully for signs/symptoms of withdrawal. If the patient displays withdrawal symptoms, consider slowing the taper schedule; alterations may include increasing the interval between dose reductions, decreasing amount of daily dose reduction, pausing the taper and restarting when the patient is ready, and/or coadministration of an alpha-2 agonist (eg, clonidine) to blunt withdrawal symptoms (Berna 2015; CDC [Dowell 2016]). Continue to offer nonopioid analgesics as needed for pain management during the taper; consider nonopioid adjunctive treatments for withdrawal symptoms (eg, GI complaints, muscle spasm) as needed (Berna 2015; Sevarino 2018).
Cough in select patients (off-label use):
Note: In most cases, nonspecific antitussives such as codeine should be used for short-term symptomatic relief of cough that is not associated with an upper respiratory infection or acute bronchitis (ACCP [Bolser 2006]; Smith 2020).
Oral: Reported doses vary with a range of 7.5 to 120 mg/day as a single dose or in divided doses; however, evidence is of low quality (ACCP [Bolser 2006]; Smith 2010; Yancy 2013). Some experts recommend 30 to 60 mg 4 times daily in specific patient populations (eg, lung cancer) (ACCP [Molassiotis 2017]).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
The renal dosing recommendations are based upon the best available evidence and clinical expertise. Senior Editorial Team: Bruce Mueller, PharmD, FCCP, FASN, FNKF; Jason A. Roberts, PhD, BPharm (Hons), B App Sc, FSHP, FISAC; Michael Heung, MD, MS.
Altered kidney function:
Oral, Injection [Canadian product]:
eGFR ≥60 mL/minute/1.73 m2: No dosage adjustment necessary (expert opinion).
eGFR 30 to <60 mL/minute/1.73 m2: Avoid use; use of alternative analgesics preferred (Coluzzi 2020; Davison 2014; Koncicki 2017; Owsiany 2019; expert opinion). Codeine and its metabolites (including morphine-3-glucuronide and morphine-6-glucuronide) are eliminated by the kidneys. Patients with chronic kidney disease who are ultra-rapid metabolizers of codeine are at greatest risk of neurotoxic effects (Coluzzi 2020; Molanaei 2010). If necessary, administer 50% to 75% of the usual dose initially; titrate gradually based on tolerability and response with frequent monitoring for adverse effects.
eGFR <30 mL/minute/1.73 m2: Avoid use (Coluzzi 2020; Davison 2014; Koncicki 2017; Owsiany 2019; expert opinion).
Hemodialysis, intermittent (thrice weekly): Oral, Injection [Canadian product]: Avoid use (Coluzzi 2020; Owsiany 2019). Codeine and its metabolites (including morphine-3-glucuronide and morphine-6-glucuronide) are eliminated by the kidneys and accumulation is likely (Guay 1988). Serious adverse effects, including oversedation and seizures, have been reported in dialysis patients (Kuo 2004; Matzke 1986).
Peritoneal dialysis: Oral, Injection [Canadian product]: Avoid use (Coluzzi 2020; Owsiany 2019). Codeine and its metabolites (including morphine-3-glucuronide and morphine-6-glucuronide) are eliminated by the kidneys and accumulation is likely (Guay 1988). Serious adverse effects, including oversedation and seizures, have been reported in dialysis patients (Kuo 2004; Matzke 1986).
CRRT: Oral, Injection [Canadian product]: Avoid use (expert opinion).
PIRRT (eg, sustained, low-efficiency diafiltration): O ral, Injection [Canadian product]: Avoid use (expert opinion).
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling (has not been studied); however, lower initial doses or longer dosing intervals followed by careful titration are recommended.
(For additional information see "Codeine: Pediatric drug information")
Note: Codeine 30 mg/5 mL oral solution has been discontinued in the US for more than 1 year. Doses should be titrated to appropriate analgesic effect; use the lowest effective dose for the shortest period of time:
Pain management; analgesia: Limited data available: Note: Use is contraindicated in pediatric patients <12 years of age and for postoperative management in pediatric patients 12 to 18 years of age who have undergone tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. Avoid codeine use in all pediatric patient populations in which it is contraindicated and in pediatric patients 12 to 18 years of age who have other risk factors that increase risk for respiratory depression associated with codeine (eg, conditions associated with hypoventilation like postoperative status, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, severe pulmonary disease, neuromuscular disease, use of other medications known to depress respiratory drive); in rare cases in which codeine-containing product is the only option, consider genotype testing prior to use; use extra precaution; monitor closely for adverse effects. Codeine has been associated with reports of life-threatening or fatal respiratory depression in children and adolescents; multifactorial causes have been identified; of primary concern are unrecognized ultrarapid metabolizers of CYP2D6 who may have extensive conversion of codeine (prodrug) to morphine and thus increased opioid-mediated effects. Avoid codeine use in pediatric patient populations in which it is contraindicated; in rare cases in which codeine-containing product is the only option, consider genotype testing prior to use; use extra precaution; monitor closely for adverse effects (AAP [Tobias 2016]; Dancel 2017; Gammal 2016; Goldschneider 2017; Poonai 2015).
Children and Adolescents: Oral: 0.5 to 1 mg/kg/dose every 4 to 6 hours as needed; maximum single dose: 60 mg/dose (APS 2016)
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
There are no specific dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling; however, clearance may be reduced; active metabolites may accumulate. Use with caution; initiate at lower doses or longer dosing intervals followed by careful titration.
The following guidelines have been used by some clinicians (Aronoff 2007):
Children and Adolescents:
GFR >50 mL/minute/1.73 m2: No adjustment needed
GFR 10 to 50 mL/minute/1.73 m2: Administer 75% of normal dose
GFR <10 mL/minute/1.73 m2: Administer 50% of normal dose
Hemodialysis: Administer 50% of normal dose
Peritoneal dialysis (PD): Administer 50% of normal dose
CRRT: Administer 75% of normal dose
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling (has not been studied); however, initial lower doses or longer dosing intervals followed by careful titration are recommended in adult patients.
Refer to adult dosing. Use with caution and consider initiation at the low end of the dosing range; reduced initial dosages may be necessary.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral, as sulfate:
Generic: 15 mg, 30 mg, 60 mg
Yes
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Liquid, Oral:
Generic: 0.2% (500 mL, 2000 mL)
Solution, Injection:
Generic: 30 mg/mL (1 mL)
Syrup, Oral:
Generic: 5 mg/mL (8 mL, 500 mL, 2000 mL)
Tablet, Oral:
Generic: 15 mg, 30 mg
Tablet Extended Release, Oral:
Codeine Contin: 50 mg [contains fd&c blue #2 (indigo carm) aluminum lake]
Codeine Contin: 100 mg [contains fd&c yellow #5 (tartrazine)aluminum lake, quinoline (d&c yellow #10) aluminum lake]
Codeine Contin: 150 mg, 200 mg
C-II
An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and as follows, must be dispensed with this medication:
Codeine sulfate oral solution: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/202245s009lbl.pdf#page=29
Codeine sulfate tablets: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/022402s014lbl.pdf#page=29
Oral:
Oral solution [Canadian product]: Administer with an accurate measuring device (calibrated oral syringe or measuring cup); do not use a household teaspoon or tablespoon to measure dose (overdosage may occur).
Controlled-release tablets: Codeine Contin [Canadian product]: Tablets should be swallowed whole; do not chew, dissolve, or crush. All strengths may be halved, except the 50 mg tablets; half tablets should also be swallowed intact.
Bariatric surgery: Some institutions may have specific protocols that conflict with these recommendations; refer to institutional protocols as appropriate. Switch to IR formulation (tablet or oral suspension).
Injection [Canadian product]: May be administered by IM or SubQ injection.
Oral: Administer with food or water to decrease nausea and GI upset; administer oral liquid doses with an accurate measuring device (calibrated oral syringe or measuring cup); do not use a household teaspoon or tablespoon to measure dose (overdosage may occur)
Pain management: Management of mild to moderate pain.
Limitations of use: Reserve codeine for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options (eg, nonopioid analgesics, opioid combination products) are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate.
Cough in select patients
Codeine may be confused with Cardene, Cordran, iodine, Lodine
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) includes this medication among its list of drug classes which have a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error.
KIDs List: Codeine, when used in pediatric patients <18 years of age, is identified on the Key Potentially Inappropriate Drugs in Pediatrics (KIDs) list and should be avoided due to risk of respiratory depression and death unless pharmacogenetic testing completed (strong recommendation; high quality of evidence) (PPA [Meyers 2020]).
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.
Frequency not defined.
Cardiovascular: Bradycardia, cardiac arrest, circulatory depression, flushing, hypertension, hypotension, palpitations, shock, syncope, tachycardia
Central nervous system: Abnormal dreams, agitation, anxiety, apprehension, ataxia, chills, depression, disorientation, dizziness, drowsiness, dysphoria, euphoria, fatigue, hallucination, headache, increased intracranial pressure, insomnia, nervousness, paresthesia, sedation, shakiness, taste disorder, vertigo
Dermatologic: Diaphoresis, pruritus, skin rash, urticaria
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal cramps, abdominal pain, anorexia, biliary tract spasm, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, pancreatitis, vomiting, xerostomia
Genitourinary: Urinary hesitancy, urinary retention
Hypersensitivity: Hypersensitivity reaction
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Laryngospasm, muscle rigidity, tremor, weakness
Ophthalmic: Blurred vision, diplopia, miosis, nystagmus, visual disturbance
Respiratory: Bronchospasm, dyspnea, respiratory arrest, respiratory depression
<1%, postmarketing, and/or case reports: Hypogonadism (Brennan 2013; Debono 2011)
Hypersensitivity (eg, anaphylaxis) to codeine or any component of the formulation; pediatric patients <12 years of age; postoperative management in pediatric patients <18 years of age who have undergone tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy; significant respiratory depression; acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment; GI obstruction, including paralytic ileus (known or suspected); concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or use of MAOIs within the last 14 days.
Canadian labeling: Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): Cor pulmonale; hypercarbia; acute alcoholism; delirium tremens; severe CNS depression; convulsive disorders; increased cerebrospinal or intracranial pressure; head injury; chronic obstructive airway disease; status asthmaticus; mechanical GI obstruction or any disease that affects bowel transit (known or suspected); suspected surgical abdomen (eg, acute appendicitis, pancreatitis); pregnancy and during labor and delivery.
Additional product specific contraindications:
Codeine Contin: Acute or mild pain that can be managed with immediate release pain medication; intermittent or short duration pain that can be managed with alternative pain medication; CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizers; breastfeeding.
Codeine injection: Breastfeeding; mild pain that can be managed with alternative pain medications.
Oral solution, tablet (immediate release): Mild pain that can be managed with other pain medications; CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizers; breastfeeding.
Documentation of allergenic cross-reactivity for opioids is limited. However, because of similarities in chemical structure and/or pharmacologic actions, the possibility of cross-sensitivity cannot be ruled out with certainty.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• CNS depression: May cause CNS depression, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery, driving).
• Constipation: May cause or aggravate constipation; chronic use may result in obstructive bowel disease, particularly in those with underlying intestinal motility disorders. May also be problematic in patients with unstable angina and patients post-myocardial infarction (MI). Consider preventative measures (eg, stool softener, increased fiber) to reduce the potential for constipation.
• Hypotension: May cause severe hypotension (including orthostatic hypotension and syncope); use with caution in patients with hypovolemia, cardiovascular disease (including acute MI), or drugs that may exaggerate hypotensive effects (including phenothiazines or general anesthetics). Avoid use in patients with circulatory shock.
• Phenanthrene hypersensitivity: Use with caution in patients with hypersensitivity reactions to other phenanthrene-derivative opioid agonists (hydrocodone, hydromorphone, levorphanol, oxycodone, oxymorphone).
• Respiratory depression: Carbon dioxide retention from opioid-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids. Patients and caregivers should be educated on how to recognize respiratory depression and the importance of getting emergency assistance immediately (eg, calling 911) in the event of known or suspected overdose.
Disease-related concerns:
• Abdominal conditions: May obscure diagnosis or clinical course of patients with acute abdominal conditions.
• Adrenocortical insufficiency: Use with caution in patients with adrenal insufficiency, including Addison disease. Long-term opioid use may cause secondary hypogonadism, which may lead to mood disorders and osteoporosis (Brennan 2013).
• Biliary tract impairment: Use with caution in patients with biliary tract dysfunction, including acute pancreatitis; may cause constriction of sphincter of Oddi.
• CNS depression/coma: Avoid use in patients with impaired consciousness or coma, as these patients are susceptible to intracranial effects of CO2 retention.
• Delirium tremens: Use with caution in patients with delirium tremens.
• Head trauma: Use with extreme caution in patients with head injury, intracranial lesions, or elevated intracranial pressure (ICP); exaggerated elevation of ICP may occur.
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
• Mental health conditions: Use opioids with caution for chronic pain in patients with mental health conditions (eg, depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder) due to increased risk for opioid use disorder and overdose; more frequent monitoring is recommended (Dowell [CDC 2016]).
• Obesity: Use with caution in patients who are morbidly obese.
• Prostatic hyperplasia/urinary stricture: Use with caution in patients with prostatic hyperplasia and/or urinary stricture.
• Psychosis: Use with caution in patients with toxic psychosis.
• Renal impairment: Use should generally be avoided in patients with impaired kidney function (Coluzzi 2020; Davison 2014; Koncicki 2017; Owsiany 2019).
• Respiratory disease: Use with caution and monitor for respiratory depression in patients with significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cor pulmonale and those having a substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercarbia, or preexisting respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy and titrating therapy. Critical respiratory depression may occur, even at therapeutic dosages. Consider the use of alternative nonopioid analgesics in these patients.
• Sleep-related disorders: Opioid use increases the risk for sleep-related disorders (eg, central sleep apnea [CSA], hypoxemia) in a dose-dependent fashion. Use with caution for chronic pain and titrate dosage cautiously in patients with risk factors for sleep-disordered breathing (eg, heart failure, obesity). Consider dose reduction in patients presenting with CSA. Avoid opioids in patients with moderate to severe sleep-disordered breathing (Dowell [CDC 2016]).
• Seizure disorders: Use with caution in patients with a history of seizure disorders; may cause or exacerbate seizures.
• Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with thyroid dysfunction.
Special populations:
• CYP2D6 "poor metabolizers": Poor metabolizers have decreased metabolism of codeine to its active metabolite, which may diminish analgesia; avoid the use of codeine and consider alternatives that are not metabolized by CYP2D6 (CPIC [Crews 2021]).
• CYP2D6 “ultrarapid metabolizers”: Ultrarapid metabolizers have increased metabolism of codeine to its active metabolite, which may increase the risk of serious adverse effects; avoid the use of codeine and consider alternatives that are not metabolized by CYP2D6 (CPIC [Crews 2021]). The prevalence of this phenotype is estimated to be 1% to 10% for White (European and North American) patients; 3% to 4% for Black patients; 1% to 2% for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean patients; and >10% in certain ethnic groups such as Oceanian, Northern African, Middle Eastern, Ashkenazi Jew, and Puerto Rican patients.
• Cachectic or debilitated patients: Use with caution in cachectic or debilitated patients; there is a greater potential for critical respiratory depression, even at therapeutic dosages. Consider the use of alternative nonopioid analgesics in these patients.
• Older adult: Use with caution in the elderly; may be more sensitive to adverse effects. Use opioids for chronic pain with caution in this age group; monitor closely due to an increased potential for risks, including certain risks such as falls/fracture, cognitive impairment, and constipation. Clearance may also be reduced in older adults (with or without renal impairment) resulting in a narrow therapeutic window and increasing the risk for respiratory depression or overdose (Dowell [CDC 2016]).
• Neonates: Neonatal withdrawal syndrome: Signs and symptoms include irritability, hyperactivity and abnormal sleep pattern, high-pitched cry, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea, and failure to gain weight. Onset, duration, and severity depend on the drug used, duration of use, maternal dose, and rate of drug elimination by the newborn.
• Pediatric: Respiratory depression: Risk factors include conditions associated with hypoventilation, such as postoperative status, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, severe pulmonary disease, neuromuscular disease, and concomitant use of other medications that cause respiratory depression. Deaths have also occurred in breastfeeding infants after being exposed to high concentrations of morphine because the mothers were ultra-rapid metabolizers. Additionally, Health Canada recommends to avoid the use of nonprescription codeine-containing pain relief products in pediatric patients <18 years of age (Health Canada 2020).
Dosage form specific issues:
• Benzyl alcohol and derivatives: Some dosage forms may contain sodium benzoate/benzoic acid. Benzoic acid (benzoate) is a metabolite of benzyl alcohol. Large amounts of benzyl alcohol (≥99 mg/kg/day) have been associated with a potentially fatal toxicity ("gasping syndrome") in neonates; the “gasping syndrome” consists of metabolic acidosis, respiratory distress, gasping respirations, CNS dysfunction (including convulsions, intracranial hemorrhage), hypotension, and cardiovascular collapse (AAP ["Inactive" 1997], CDC 1982). Some data suggest that benzoate displaces bilirubin from protein binding sites (Ahlfors 2001); avoid or use dosage forms containing benzyl alcohol derivative with caution in neonates. See manufacturer's labeling.
• Oral solution: Risk of medication errors: Ensure accuracy when prescribing, dispensing, and administering codeine oral solution. Dosing errors due to confusion between mg and mL and other codeine solutions of different concentrations can result in accidental overdose and death.
• Sulfites: Some preparations may contain sulfites, which may cause allergic reactions.
Other warnings/precautions:
• Abrupt discontinuation/withdrawal: Abrupt discontinuation in patients who are physically dependent on opioids has been associated with serious withdrawal symptoms, uncontrolled pain, attempts to find other opioids (including illicit), and suicide. Use a collaborative, patient-specific taper schedule that minimizes the risk of withdrawal, considering factors such as current opioid dose, duration of use, type of pain, and physical and psychological factors. Monitor pain control, withdrawal symptoms, mood changes, suicidal ideation, and for use of other substances; provide care as needed. Concurrent use of mixed agonist/antagonist (eg, pentazocine, nalbuphine, butorphanol) or partial agonist (eg, buprenorphine) analgesics may also precipitate withdrawal symptoms and/or reduced analgesic efficacy in patients following prolonged therapy with mu opioid agonists.
• Abuse/misuse/diversion: Use with caution in patients with a history of drug abuse or acute alcoholism; potential for drug dependency exists. Other factors associated with increased risk for misuse include younger age, concomitant depression (major), and psychotropic medication use. Consider offering naloxone prescriptions in patients with factors associated with an increased risk for overdose, such as history of overdose or substance use disorder, higher opioid dosages (≥50 morphine milligram equivalents/day orally), and concomitant benzodiazepine use (Dowell [CDC 2016]).
• Appropriate use: Chronic pain (outside of end-of-life or palliative care, active cancer treatment, sickle cell disease, or medication-based opioid use disorder treatment) in outpatient setting in adults: Opioids should not be used as first-line therapy for chronic pain management (pain >3-month duration or beyond time of normal tissue healing) due to limited short-term benefits, undetermined long-term benefits, and association with serious risks (eg, overdose, MI, auto accidents, risk of developing opioid use disorder). Preferred management includes nonpharmacologic therapy and nonopioid therapy (eg, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, certain antiseizure medications and antidepressants). If opioid therapy is initiated, it should be combined with nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapy, as appropriate. Prior to initiation, known risks of opioid therapy should be discussed and realistic treatment goals for pain/function should be established, including consideration for discontinuation if benefits do not outweigh risks. Therapy should be continued only if clinically meaningful improvement in pain/function outweighs risks. Therapy should be initiated at the lowest effective dosage using immediate-release opioids (instead of extended-release/long-acting opioids). Risk associated with use increases with higher opioid dosages. Risks and benefits should be re-evaluated when increasing dosage to ≥50 morphine milligram equivalents (MME)/day orally; dosages ≥90 MME/day orally should be avoided unless carefully justified (Dowell [CDC 2016]).
• Naloxone access: Discuss the availability of naloxone with all patients who are prescribed opioid analgesics, as well as their caregivers, and consider prescribing it to patients who are at increased risk of opioid overdose. These include patients who are also taking benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, have an opioid use disorder (OUD) (current or history of), or have experienced a previous opioid overdose. Additionally, health care providers should consider prescribing naloxone to patients prescribed medications to treat OUD; patients at risk of opioid overdose even if they are not taking an opioid analgesic or medication to treat OUD; and patients taking opioids, including methadone or buprenorphine for OUD, if they have household members, including children, or other close contacts at risk for accidental ingestion or opioid overdose. Inform patients and caregivers on options for obtaining naloxone (eg, by prescription, directly from a pharmacist, a community-based program) as permitted by state dispensing and prescribing guidelines. Educate patients and caregivers on how to recognize respiratory depression, proper administration of naloxone, and getting emergency help.
• Optimal regimen: An opioid-containing analgesic regimen should be tailored to each patient's needs and based upon the type of pain being treated (acute versus chronic), the route of administration, degree of tolerance for opioids (naive versus chronic user), age, weight, and medical condition. The optimal analgesic dose varies widely among patients; doses should be titrated to pain relief/prevention.
• Surgery: Opioids decrease bowel motility; monitor for decreased bowel motility in postop patients receiving opioids. Use with caution in the perioperative setting; individualize treatment when transitioning from parenteral to oral analgesics.
Use is contraindicated in pediatric patients <12 years of age and for postoperative management in pediatric patients 12 to 18 years of age who have undergone tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. Avoid codeine use in all pediatric patient populations in which it is contraindicated and in pediatric patients 12 to 18 years of age who have other risk factors that increase risk for respiratory depression associated with codeine (eg, conditions associated with hypoventilation like postoperative status, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, severe pulmonary disease, neuromuscular disease, use of other medications known to depress respiratory drive); in rare cases in which codeine-containing product is the only option, consider genotype testing prior to use; use extra precaution; monitor closely for adverse effects. Prior to 2017, acetaminophen/codeine was approved for use in children as young as 3 years of age. Codeine has also been removed from the WHO List of Essential Medications in Children since 2011. Codeine has been associated with reports of life-threatening or fatal respiratory depression in children and adolescents; a review of FDA adverse events data and the literature includes reports of at least 21 deaths in infants or children (1965-2015). Multifactorial causes for the respiratory depression have been identified; of primary concern are unrecognized ultrarapid metabolizers of CYP2D6 who may have extensive conversion of codeine (prodrug) to morphine and thus increased opioid-mediated effects (ie, respiratory depression). Other oral opioid and nonopioid analgesics are alternate options depending upon severity of pain and other patient specific factors (eg, age, route of administration, etc); however, each also has unique therapeutic challenges and concerns; refer to individual monographs for detailed information. Avoid codeine use in pediatric patient populations in which it is contraindicated; in rare cases where codeine-containing product is the only option, consider genotype testing prior to use; use extra precaution; monitor closely for adverse effects (AAP [Tobias 2016]; Dancel 2017; Gammal 2016; Goldschneider 2017; Poonai 2015).
Substrate of CYP2D6 (major), CYP3A4 (major), UGT2B4, UGT2B7; Note: Assignment of Major/Minor substrate status based on clinically relevant drug interaction potential
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the Lexicomp drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Ajmaline: May increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alizapride: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alvimopan: Opioid Agonists may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Alvimopan. This is most notable for patients receiving long-term (i.e., more than 7 days) opiates prior to alvimopan initiation. Management: Alvimopan is contraindicated in patients receiving therapeutic doses of opioids for more than 7 consecutive days immediately prior to alvimopan initiation. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Amphetamines: May enhance the analgesic effect of Opioid Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergic Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Opioid Agonists. Specifically, the risk for constipation and urinary retention may be increased with this combination. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Artemether and Lumefantrine: May increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Azelastine (Nasal): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Blonanserin: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Blonanserin. Management: Use caution if coadministering blonanserin and CNS depressants; dose reduction of the other CNS depressant may be required. Strong CNS depressants should not be coadministered with blonanserin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Brimonidine (Topical): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Bromopride: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Bromperidol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Cannabinoid-Containing Products: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Cannabinoid-Containing Products. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chlormethiazole: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Monitor closely for evidence of excessive CNS depression. The chlormethiazole labeling states that an appropriately reduced dose should be used if such a combination must be used. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Chlorphenesin Carbamate: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CNS Depressants: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Avoid concomitant use of opioid agonists and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May diminish the therapeutic effect of Codeine. These CYP2D6 inhibitors may prevent the metabolic conversion of codeine to its active metabolite morphine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May diminish the therapeutic effect of Codeine. These CYP2D6 inhibitors may prevent the metabolic conversion of codeine to its active metabolite morphine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate): May decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Codeine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Codeine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate): May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Codeine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Codeine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Daridorexant: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Dose reduction of daridorexant and/or any other CNS depressant may be necessary. Use of daridorexant with alcohol is not recommended, and the use of daridorexant with any other drug to treat insomnia is not recommended. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Opioid Agonists may enhance the hyponatremic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
DexmedeTOMIDine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of DexmedeTOMIDine. Management: Monitor for increased CNS depression during coadministration of dexmedetomidine and CNS depressants, and consider dose reductions of either agent to avoid excessive CNS depression. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Difelikefalin: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dimethindene (Topical): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Diuretics: Opioid Agonists may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Diuretics. Opioid Agonists may diminish the therapeutic effect of Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Droperidol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider dose reductions of droperidol or of other CNS agents (eg, opioids, barbiturates) with concomitant use. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Eluxadoline: Opioid Agonists may enhance the constipating effect of Eluxadoline. Risk X: Avoid combination
Flunarizine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Flunarizine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Flunitrazepam: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Flunitrazepam. Management: Reduce the dose of CNS depressants when combined with flunitrazepam and monitor patients for evidence of CNS depression (eg, sedation, respiratory depression). Use non-CNS depressant alternatives when available. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Gastrointestinal Agents (Prokinetic): Opioid Agonists may diminish the therapeutic effect of Gastrointestinal Agents (Prokinetic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
HydrOXYzine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider a decrease in the CNS depressant dose, as appropriate, when used together with hydroxyzine. Increase monitoring of signs/symptoms of CNS depression in any patient receiving hydroxyzine together with another CNS depressant. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Kava Kava: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Kratom: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lemborexant: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Dosage adjustments of lemborexant and of concomitant CNS depressants may be necessary when administered together because of potentially additive CNS depressant effects. Close monitoring for CNS depressant effects is necessary. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Lisuride: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lofexidine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Magnesium Sulfate: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methotrimeprazine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Methotrimeprazine. Methotrimeprazine may enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Reduce the usual dose of CNS depressants by 50% if starting methotrimeprazine until the dose of methotrimeprazine is stable. Monitor patient closely for evidence of CNS depression. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Metoclopramide: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
MetyroSINE: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of MetyroSINE. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Minocycline (Systemic): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Codeine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Nalfurafine: Opioid Agonists may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Nalfurafine. Opioid Agonists may diminish the therapeutic effect of Nalfurafine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nalmefene: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Avoid the concomitant use of oral nalmefene and opioid agonists. Discontinue oral nalmefene 1 week prior to any anticipated use of opioid agonists. If combined, larger doses of opioid agonists will likely be required. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Naltrexone: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Seek therapeutic alternatives to opioids. See full drug interaction monograph for detailed recommendations. Risk X: Avoid combination
Nefazodone: Opioid Agonists (metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6) may enhance the serotonergic effect of Nefazodone. This could result in serotonin syndrome. Nefazodone may increase the serum concentration of Opioid Agonists (metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6). Management: Monitor for increased opioid effects, including fatal respiratory depression, when these agents are combined and consider opioid dose reductions until stable drug effects are achieved. Additionally, monitor for serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Olopatadine (Nasal): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Opioid Agonists: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Avoid concomitant use of opioid agonists and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Opioids (Mixed Agonist / Antagonist): May diminish the analgesic effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Seek alternatives to mixed agonist/antagonist opioids in patients receiving pure opioid agonists, and monitor for symptoms of therapeutic failure/high dose requirements (or withdrawal in opioid-dependent patients) if patients receive these combinations. Risk X: Avoid combination
Orphenadrine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Orphenadrine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Oxomemazine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Oxybate Salt Products: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Oxybate Salt Products. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination when possible. If combined, dose reduction or discontinuation of one or more CNS depressants (including the oxybate salt product) should be considered. Interrupt oxybate salt treatment during short-term opioid use Risk D: Consider therapy modification
OxyCODONE: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of OxyCODONE. Management: Avoid concomitant use of oxycodone and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Paraldehyde: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Paraldehyde. Risk X: Avoid combination
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Peginterferon Alfa-2b may increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pegvisomant: Opioid Agonists may diminish the therapeutic effect of Pegvisomant. Risk C: Monitor therapy
PHENobarbital: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Codeine. PHENobarbital may decrease the serum concentration of Codeine. Management: Avoid use of codeine and phenobarbital when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because phenobarbital is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased codeine efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Piribedil: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Piribedil. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pramipexole: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of Pramipexole. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Primidone: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Codeine. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Codeine. Management: Avoid use of codeine and primidone when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased codeine efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Procarbazine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ramosetron: Opioid Agonists may enhance the constipating effect of Ramosetron. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b: CNS Depressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b. Specifically, the risk of neuropsychiatric adverse effects may be increased. Management: Avoid coadministration of ropeginterferon alfa-2b and other CNS depressants. If this combination cannot be avoided, monitor patients for neuropsychiatric adverse effects (eg, depression, suicidal ideation, aggression, mania). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
ROPINIRole: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of ROPINIRole. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Rotigotine: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of Rotigotine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Rufinamide: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of CNS Depressants. Specifically, sleepiness and dizziness may be enhanced. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Samidorphan: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Opioid Agonists. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors): Opioid Agonists (metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6) may enhance the serotonergic effect of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Opioid Agonists (metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6). Management: Monitor for decreased therapeutic response (eg, analgesia) and opioid withdrawal when coadministered with SSRIs that strongly inhibit CYP2D6. Additionally, monitor for serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity if these drugs are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Serotonergic Agents (High Risk): Opioid Agonists (metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6) may enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Sincalide: Drugs that Affect Gallbladder Function may diminish the therapeutic effect of Sincalide. Management: Consider discontinuing drugs that may affect gallbladder motility prior to the use of sincalide to stimulate gallbladder contraction. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Somatostatin Analogs: May decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Codeine. Specifically, the concentrations of the active metabolite morphine may be reduced. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Succinylcholine: May enhance the bradycardic effect of Opioid Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Suvorexant: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Suvorexant. Management: Dose reduction of suvorexant and/or any other CNS depressant may be necessary. Use of suvorexant with alcohol is not recommended, and the use of suvorexant with any other drug to treat insomnia is not recommended. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Thalidomide: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Thalidomide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Valerian: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Zolpidem: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Zolpidem. Management: Reduce the Intermezzo brand sublingual zolpidem adult dose to 1.75 mg for men who are also receiving other CNS depressants. No such dose change is recommended for women. Avoid use with other CNS depressants at bedtime; avoid use with alcohol. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Long-term opioid use may cause secondary hypogonadism, which may lead to sexual dysfunction or infertility in males and females (Brennan 2013).
Opioids cross the placenta.
According to some studies, maternal use of opioids may be associated with birth defects (including neural tube defects, congenital heart defects, and gastroschisis), poor fetal growth, stillbirth, and preterm delivery (CDC [Dowell 2016]).
[US Boxed Warning]: Prolonged use of codeine during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available. If chronic opioid exposure occurs in pregnancy, adverse events in the newborn (including withdrawal) may occur (Chou 2009). Symptoms of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) following opioid exposure may be autonomic (eg, fever, temperature instability), gastrointestinal (eg, diarrhea, vomiting, poor feeding/weight gain), or neurologic (eg, high-pitched crying, hyperactivity, increased muscle tone, increased wakefulness/abnormal sleep pattern, irritability, sneezing, seizure, tremor, yawning) (Dow 2012; Hudak 2012). Patients who are physically dependent on opioids may give birth to infants who are also physically dependent. Opioids may cause respiratory depression and psycho-physiologic effects in the neonate; newborns of mothers receiving opioids during labor should be monitored.
Codeine is not commonly used to treat pain during labor and immediately postpartum (ACOG 209 2019) or chronic noncancer pain in pregnant patients or those who may become pregnant (CDC [Dowell 2016]; Chou 2009).
Codeine and its active metabolite morphine are present in breast milk and can be detected in the serum of breastfeeding infants (Meny 1993).
Concentrations of codeine and morphine in breast milk are dependent upon the mother's CYP2D6 metabolism. In patients with normal CYP2D6 metabolism, the amount detected in breast milk is expected to be dose-dependent; however, deaths have occurred in breastfeeding infants exposed to high concentrations of morphine because the mothers were ultrarapid metabolizers. Genetic testing for CYP2D6 is recommended for patients requiring codeine for postpartum pain and who will be breastfeeding (Madadi 2013).
Additional adverse events in the infant may include excessive sedation and respiratory depression. Withdrawal symptoms may occur when maternal use is discontinued or breastfeeding is stopped.
Nonopioid analgesics are preferred for breastfeeding females who require pain control peripartum or for surgery outside of the postpartum period; codeine is not recommended if an opioid is needed (ABM [Martin 2018]; ABM [Reece-Stremtan 2017]). In general, a single occasional dose of an opioid analgesic may be compatible with breastfeeding (WHO 2002). Breastfeeding patients using opioids for postpartum pain should monitor their infants for drowsiness, sedation, feeding difficulties, or limpness (ACOG 209 2019).
Pain relief, respiratory and mental status, blood pressure, heart rate; bowel function; signs/symptoms of addiction, abuse, or misuse; signs/symptoms of hypogonadism or hypoadrenalism (Brennan 2013).
Alternate recommendations: Chronic pain (long-term therapy outside of end-of-life or palliative care, active cancer treatment, sickle cell disease, or medication-based opioid use disorder treatment): Evaluate benefits/risks of opioid therapy within 1 to 4 weeks of treatment initiation and with dose increases. Re-evaluate benefits/risks every 3 months during therapy or more frequently in patients at increased risk of overdose or opioid use disorder. Urine drug testing is recommended prior to initiation and re-checking should be considered at least yearly (includes controlled prescription medications and illicit drugs of abuse). State prescription drug monitoring program data should be reviewed by clinicians prior to initiation and periodically during therapy (frequency ranging from every prescription to every 3 months) (Dowell [CDC 2016]).
Binds to opioid receptors in the CNS, causing inhibition of ascending pain pathways, altering the perception of and response to pain; causes cough suppression by direct central action in the medulla; produces generalized CNS depression
Onset of action: Oral: Immediate release: 0.5 to 1 hour; Injection [Canadian product]: 10 to 30 minutes
Peak effect: Oral: Immediate release: 1 to 1.5 hours; Injection [Canadian product]: 30 to 60 minutes
Duration: Oral: Immediate release: 4 to 6 hours; Injection [Canadian product]: 4 to 6 hours
Absorption: Oral: Adequate
Distribution: ~3 to 6 L/kg
Protein binding: ~7% to 25%
Metabolism: Hepatic via UGT2B7 and UGT2B4 to codeine-6-glucuronide, via CYP2D6 to morphine (active), and via CYP3A4 to norcodeine. Morphine is further metabolized via glucuronidation to morphine-3-glucuronide and morphine-6-glucuronide (active).
Bioavailability: 53%
Half-life elimination: ~3 hours
Time to peak, plasma: Immediate release: 1 hour; Controlled release [Canadian product]: 3.3 hours
Excretion: Urine (~90%, ~10% of the total dose as unchanged drug); feces
Tablets (Codeine Sulfate Oral)
15 mg (per each): $0.86
30 mg (per each): $0.93 - $1.86
60 mg (per each): $1.70
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
