Codeine
What it's for
Codeine is a painkiller for moderate pain. It can also treat diarrhoea and dry coughs. It is an opioid medicine that works by blocking pain signals to your brain.
Comes as: Tablets
How to take it
- Adults: Usually 30mg to 60mg every 4 hours when needed.
- Maximum 240mg in 24 hours.
- Do not use for more than 3 days without medical advice.
- Take with or after food.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Constipation (very common)
- Feeling sick
- Feeling sleepy or drowsy
- Headache
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Can be addictive - only use for short periods
- Do not drink alcohol
- Do not drive if you feel drowsy
- Some people cannot break down codeine properly and may have severe side effects
- Not suitable for children under 12
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have slow or shallow breathing
- You feel very drowsy or cannot wake up
- You have severe constipation
- You have confusion or hallucinations
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.