Relcof C Side Effects
Generic name: codeine / guaifenesin
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 27, 2024.
Note: This document provides detailed information about Relcof C Side Effects associated with codeine / guaifenesin. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Relcof C.
Applies to codeine / guaifenesin: oral liquid, oral syrup.
Important warnings
This medicine can cause some serious health issues
Codeine can slow or stop your breathing, and may be habit-forming. MISUSE OF THIS MEDICINE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription.
Do not give this medicine to anyone under 18.
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Like other narcotic medications, codeine can slow your breathing. Death may occur if breathing becomes too weak.
A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.
Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:
-
noisy breathing, sighing, shallow breathing;
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a slow heart rate or weak pulse;
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severe dizziness or drowsiness;
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confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;
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little or no urinating;
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severe constipation; or
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slow heart rate, weak or shallow breathing.
Serious side effects may be more likely in older adults and those who are overweight, malnourished, or debilitated.
Common side effects may include:
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constipation; or
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mild drowsiness.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
For healthcare professionals
Applies to codeine/guaifenesin: oral capsule, oral liquid, oral syrup, oral tablet.
General adverse events
The more commonly reported adverse effects of codeine include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Guaifenesin is generally well tolerated.
Nervous system
- Frequency not reported: CNS depression, lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation, headache, convulsions, weakness[Ref]
Codeine
Cardiovascular
- Frequency not reported: Tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitation, faintness, syncope, orthostatic hypotension, circulatory depression
Codeine
Gastrointestinal
- Frequency not reported: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, biliary tract spasm, increased colonic motility, toxic dilation
Guaifenesin:
- Frequency not reported: Abdominal pain (upper), diarrhea, nausea, vomiting[Ref]
Codeine
Genitourinary
- Frequency not reported: Oliguria, urinary retention, antidiuretic effect[Ref]
Codeine
Dermatologic
Codeine:
- Frequency not reported: Rash
Guaifenesin:
- Frequency not reported: Rash[Ref]
Codeine-induced rash may be related to direct stimulation of histamine release.[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
- Frequency not reported: Pruritus, giant urticaria, angioneurotic edema, laryngeal edema
Guaifenesin:
- Frequency not reported: Hypersensitivity reactions (pruritus, urticaria)
Codeine
Ocular
- Frequency not reported: Visual disturbances
Codeine
Psychiatric
- Frequency not reported: Euphoria, dysphoria, transient hallucination, disorientation
Codeine
Respiratory
Codeine:
- Frequency not reported: Respiratory depression[Ref]
Respiratory depression and death have occurred in children who received codeine in the postoperative period following tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. Further investigation has shown these patients to be ultra-rapid metabolizers of codeine. Children with obstructive sleep apnea who are treated with codeine appear to be particularly sensitive to the respiratory depressant effects of codeine.[Ref]
References
1. de Groot AC, Conemans J (1986) "Allergic urticarial rash from oral codeine." Contact Dermatitis, 14, p. 209-14
2. (2001) "Product Information. Robitussin (guaifenesin)." Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories
3. Gonzalogarijo MA, Revengaarranz F (1996) "Fixed drug eruption due to codeine." Br J Dermatol, 135, p. 498-9
4. US Food and Drug Administration (2016) FDA News Release: FDA requires strong warnings for opioid analgesics, prescription opioid cough products, and benzodiazepine labeling related to serious risks and death from combined use. http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm51869
More about Relcof C (codeine / guaifenesin)
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: upper respiratory combinations
Patient resources
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Further information
Relcof C side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.