Codeine

• Codeine converts to morphine in the body, acting on opioid receptors to provide analgesia and sedation.
• It is an opioid analgesic and antitussive used for mild to moderate pain and cough relief.

Chemical Formula:

• C₁₈H₂₁NO₃

Mechanism of Action:

• Prodrug → demethylated in liver (CYP2D6) → morphine
• Weak μ-opioid agonist itself; major activity via conversion to morphine

Therapeutic Uses of Codeine:

• Mild to moderate pain
• Cough suppression
• Often combined with acetaminophen or NSAIDs

Side Effects of Codeine:

• Sedation
• Constipation
• Nausea
• At high doses: respiratory depression

Notes:

• Genetic polymorphisms in CYP2D6 affect efficacy/toxicity
• Safer than morphine for outpatient use

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