Acetaminophen and Codeine is a combination analgesic composed of two ingredients: the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug "acetaminophen" and the opioid analgesic "codeine." This medication is primarily used to relieve moderate to severe pain, such as postoperative pain, chronic osteoarthritis pain, or cancer-related pain. The combination of the two ingredients can have a synergistic effect, with acetaminophen reducing inflammation and codeine alleviating pain perception through its action on the central nervous system, thus providing a more comprehensive analgesic effect.
This medication requires a prescription from a physician and cannot be purchased or adjusted in dosage independently. It is essential to strictly follow the medication instructions, as codeine has addictive properties and poses a risk of respiratory depression; long-term or excessive use may lead to severe complications. The medication is typically available in oral tablet or liquid form, and the specific usage must be adjusted based on the patient's age, weight, and severity of the condition.
This combination medication may have different brand names in different countries or regions, with common brands including:
The generic name is "Acetaminophen and Codeine," and the ratio of the ingredients may vary depending on the formulation; specific content should be confirmed according to the labeling provided by the pharmacist.
This medication belongs to the "opioid analgesic combination formulation," where codeine is classified as a weak opioid analgesic (weak opioid receptor agonist), and acetaminophen is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The combination of the two components allows the medication to provide both peripheral and central analgesic effects, suitable for symptoms requiring enhanced pain relief.
This type of medication must be classified as a controlled substance due to its opioid content, which may lead to dependence. In Taiwan and Hong Kong, this medication can only be purchased with a prescription from a physician.
It is primarily used to treat moderate to severe acute and chronic pain, with common applicable symptoms including:
This medication is not suitable for mild pain or long-term chronic pain management; the physician will decide whether to prescribe it based on pain assessment tools (such as the VAS pain scale). It should not be combined with other opioid medications to avoid increasing the risk of central nervous system depression.
Mild side effects include:
Serious side effects require immediate medical attention:
The following patients should avoid using this medication:
Black Box Warning: The U.S. FDA explicitly states that this medication may cause respiratory depression and addiction risks, especially in those using it for more than three weeks. Pregnant women should weigh the risks and benefits of use, as use during the second and third trimesters may increase the risk of respiratory depression in newborns.
Combining this medication with the following drugs may enhance side effects:
Combining with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) may increase the risk of bleeding. Alcohol should be avoided during the course of treatment, as it may exacerbate liver toxicity. Consult a physician before using herbal supplements (e.g., honeysuckle, fish oil), as some natural preparations may affect liver metabolism pathways.
The common adult dosage is 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours, with a maximum daily dosage not exceeding:
Tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed; taking them after meals can reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Patients with liver or kidney dysfunction need dosage adjustments, and children and the elderly should start with a lower initial dose and be closely monitored for reactions. It is strictly prohibited to split tablets or mix them with other analgesics.
If a scheduled dose is missed, please follow these principles:
If a double dose is mistakenly taken, seek medical attention immediately, as it may cause acute liver injury or respiratory depression. It is recommended to set up a medication reminder system and store the medication securely to prevent accidental exposure by children.
If overdose is suspected, immediately:
Signs of acute poisoning include: deep coma, pinpoint pupils, respiratory rate below 8 breaths/minute. Acetaminophen overdose may lead to liver failure, and the antidote acetylcysteine should be administered within 6 hours.
You should strictly follow the dosage instructions given by your physician or pharmacist and not increase the dosage or frequency independently. If you miss a dose, determine whether to take it based on the drug's half-life and avoid using other medications containing acetaminophen (such as cold medications) to prevent increased liver toxicity risk.
What should I do if I experience dizziness or drowsiness while using this medication?Codeine may cause central nervous system depression, leading to dizziness or drowsiness. During the medication period, avoid operating machinery or driving; if symptoms are severe or persistent, stop taking the medication immediately and contact your physician to assess whether a medication adjustment is needed.
What interactions should I be aware of when using this medication with other analgesics or herbal preparations?This medication should not be combined with other opioid analgesics or excessive acetaminophen formulations, as this may lead to respiratory depression or liver damage. Inform your physician about the ingredients of any herbal medicines used, especially those containing opioids, to avoid overlapping use.
How should I monitor liver function during long-term use of this medication?Long-term use may increase the risk of liver damage; it is recommended to perform liver function blood tests every 3-6 months. If symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, or pain in the upper right abdomen occur, stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical evaluation of liver function indices.
Will taking this medication during breastfeeding affect my baby?Codeine may be secreted into breast milk, potentially leading to respiratory depression in the infant. Breastfeeding women should evaluate the risks and benefits with their physician before use; if necessary, breastfeeding should be paused or alternative medications should be chosen, and the infant should be closely monitored for abnormal symptoms such as drowsiness or decreased sucking ability.
%201.svg)
Copyright © 2025 MedFrontiers. All Rights Reserved.
