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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:

Serious side effects may be more likely in older adults and those who are overweight, malnourished, or debilitated.

Common side effects may include:

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

Codeine

Cardiovascular

Codeine

Gastrointestinal

Guaifenesin:

Codeine

Genitourinary

Codeine

Dermatologic

Codeine:

Guaifenesin:

Codeine-induced rash may be related to direct stimulation of histamine release.[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Guaifenesin:

Codeine

Ocular

Codeine

Psychiatric

Codeine

Respiratory

Codeine:

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

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.