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Codeine Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 9, 2023.

Applies to the following strengths: sulfate 30 mg; sulfate 60 mg; phosphate 30 mg; phosphate 60 mg; 30 mg/mL; 60 mg/mL; 15 mg/mL; sulfate 15 mg; 15 mg/5 mL; phosphate; sulfate 30 mg/5 mL

Usual Adult Dose for Pain

Initial dose: 15 to 60 mg orally up to every 4 hours as needed
Maximum dose: 360 mg in 24 hours

Comments:


Use: For the management of mild to moderate pain where treatment with an opioid is appropriate and from which alternative treatments are inadequate.

Renal Dose Adjustments

Use with caution; start with lower doses or with longer dosing intervals and titrate slowly while carefully monitoring for side effects.

Liver Dose Adjustments

Use with caution; start with lower doses or with longer dosing intervals and titrate slowly while carefully monitoring for side effects.

Dose Adjustments

Elderly: Use caution, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range

CONVERSION from other Opioids:


Interactions with Drugs Affecting CYP450 Isoenzymes: The effects of concomitant use or discontinuation of CYP450 3A4 inducers/inhibitors or CYP450 2D6 inhibitors are complex; concomitant use requires careful consideration of the effects on the parent drug, codeine, and the active metabolite, morphine.

Safe Reduction or Discontinuation of Therapy:

Precautions

The US FDA requires a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) for all opioids intended for outpatient use. The new FDA Opioid Analgesic REMS is a designed to assist in communicating the serious risks of opioid pain medications to patients and health care professionals. It includes a medication guide and elements to assure safe use. For additional information: www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/rems/index.cfm

US BOXED WARNINGS: RISK OF MEDICATION ERRORS; ADDICTION, ABUSE AND MISUSE; RISK EVALUATION AND MITIGATION STRATEGY (REMS); LIFE-THREATENING RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION; ACCIDENTAL INGESTION; ULTRA-RAPID METABOLISM OF CODEINE AND OTHER RISK FACTORS FOR LIFE-THREATENING RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION IN CHILDREN; NEONATAL OPIOID WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME; INTERACTIONS WITH DRUGS AFFECTING CYP450 ISOENZYMES; and RISKS FROM CONCOMITANT USE WITH BENZODIAZEPINES OR OTHER CNS DEPRESSANTS:


CONTRAINDICATIONS:

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

US Controlled Substance: Schedule II

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:


Oral Solution:

Storage requirements:

General:

Monitoring:

Patient advice:

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.