Health Library

Codeine (By injection)

Codeine (KOE-deen)

Treats mild to moderate pain.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles or as a shot under your skin.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
• This medicine is not for long-term use.
• Missed dose: Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.
• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine, containers, and other supplies. Throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.
• Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Tell your doctor if you have liver, kidney, or thyroid disease, Addison disease, any lung disease, or severe stomach pains. Tell your doctor if you ever had a head injury.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or use machines if you are not alert.
• This medicine can be habit-forming. Do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor if you think your medicine is not working.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blurred vision
• Confusion or trouble thinking clearly
• Decrease in how much or how often you urinate
• Fast or uneven heartbeat
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Seizures
• Shallow or slow breathing
• Weakness or feeling very tired

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Being worried, anxious, or having mood changes
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Itching, rash, or redness on your body
• Mild nausea, vomiting, or constipation
• Sweating, or warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms or upper chest

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024