Codeine, also known as methylmorphine, is a narcotic or opiate, available by prescription only in the United States. It is typically prescribed to relieve pain, help suppress cough or assist in the relief of diarrhea. Codeine is similar to the drug morphine, which is derived from the poppy plant. However, codeine is not nearly as strong as morphine. Even though codeine is not quite as potent, it can be addictive. Codeine is often combined with other substances called acetaminophen, which also relieves pain, and with caffeine, which helps balance out the drowsiness effect that the codeine has.

A doctor may prescribe codeine to you for pain or a cough, however, because of the possible habit forming effects it may have for someone who has an addictive personality, it is important that you let your doctor know if you have a history of drug abuse. It is also very important that you never share your medication with anyone, or use medication that is prescribed to someone else. Codeine has a calming effect, so it is extremely important that you use caution when driving or operating machinery. You should never drink alcohol with any medication.

Some drug side effects you may want to be aware of before using codeine are:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping
• Lack of interest in sex
• Dry mouth
• Sweatiness

Some more serious side effects are listed below, and you should seek medical help immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Fainting
• Hallucinations
• Disorientation
• Confusion
• Slow heartbeat, or slow breathing
• Convulsions

It is also important that you let your physician know what, if any, other medications you are taking. Codeine is a narcotic pain medication and it is not safe to take more than one narcotic at a time. Also remember, because codeine is typically prescribed in combination with acetaminophen, which is also known as Tylenol, you want to be certain you aren't taking too much of that either.

The key here is to have proper education and communication. You want to be sure you know what medications you are taking and why. If you have questions, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it. If you feel you may not be achieving the same level of pain relief, and feel like you need a stronger dose, consult your doctor right away. Don't make that kind of decision on your own. Codeine is an addictive narcotic, and you may not even realize that you have built up a tolerance to the drug. However, in the case that you already know you have a problem with using too much medication, you may find yourself addicted to codeine. It is really nothing to be ashamed of. The most important thing for you to do is get help as soon as possible before it gets out of control.