codeine
a substance, derived from morphine, that is used for pain relief and to suppress a cough.
Codeine is used to relieve pain. It is also used to relieve cough. Codeine belongs to a class of medications called opiate (narcotic) analgesics and to a class of medications called antitussives. When codeine is used to treat pain, it works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. When codeine is used to reduce coughing, it works by decreasing the activity in the part of the brain that causes coughing. Codeine is also available in combination with acetaminophen and aspirin, and as an ingredient in many cough and cold medications. This monograph only includes information about the use of codeine. If you are taking a codeine combination product, be sure to read information about all the ingredients in the product you are taking and ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking codeine affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
A few studies have suggested that use or misuse of opioids, including codeine, might cause changes to the menstrual cycle, which could make it harder to get pregnant. If you have questions about codeine and your fertility, this is something to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Does taking codeine increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons. The fact sheet states that it is not known whether using codeine can increase the chance of miscarriage. Any concerns about miscarriage risk should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking codeine increase the risk of birth defects?
About 3 out of 100 babies are born with a birth defect in any pregnancy. Some studies suggest a small increased chance of certain birth defects (such as spina bifida, cleft lip and/or palate, and intestinal or heart defects) with codeine use in pregnancy, but findings are not consistent across studies and no specific pattern has been identified. If there is an increased chance, it is likely to be small; your healthcare provider can help you weigh this in your specific situation.
Can taking codeine during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
Studies on opioids in pregnancy have found an increased chance of poor fetal growth, preterm delivery, C-section, and stillbirth, more commonly with heroin use or with prescription opioids taken in higher amounts or longer than recommended. One study linked third-trimester codeine use with a higher chance of postpartum hemorrhage and emergency C-section. Use of an opioid close to delivery can also lead to withdrawal symptoms (neonatal abstinence syndrome) in the newborn, so it is important to talk with your healthcare provider.
Can taking codeine during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
It is not known if codeine specifically can increase the chance of behavior or learning issues. Some studies on opioids as a group have found more learning and behavior problems in children with long-term prenatal exposure, but it is hard to know if this is due to the medication itself or other factors. There are no prenatal tests that can predict future learning or behavior, so this is best discussed with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking codeine?
Codeine passes into breast milk, and case reports have described nursing babies being very sleepy, having trouble latching, breathing problems, slowed heart rate, and low oxygen; other reports describe no problems. The U.S. FDA and the product label recommend that codeine not be used during breastfeeding due to the risk of serious problems in some infants, though the benefit of treating your condition might outweigh the possible risks. This decision, including how to monitor your baby for signs of concern, should be made together with your healthcare provider.
Source: National Library of Medicine
codeine