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Acetaminophen and Codeine

Brand names: Acetaminophen and Codeine

Acetaminophen and Codeine is a combination medicine used to relieve mild to moderately severe pain. It contains acetaminophen (a pain reliever) and codeine (a narcotic pain reliever).

What it is used for

According to the FDA label, this medicine is used for the relief of mild to moderately severe pain.

How it is taken

The FDA label states that dosage should be adjusted based on pain severity and patient response. For adults, the usual single dose is codeine 15 mg to 60 mg and acetaminophen 300 mg to 1000 mg, with a maximum 24-hour dose of codeine 360 mg and acetaminophen 4000 mg. For children, the usual codeine dose is 0.5 mg per kg of body weight. Doses may be repeated every 4 hours. The prescriber determines the number of tablets per dose and the maximum per 24 hours.

Warnings

  • Acetaminophen can cause acute liver failure, especially at doses over 4000 mg per day or when taken with alcohol.
  • Rare but serious skin reactions (AGEP, SJS, TEN) can occur with acetaminophen; stop use at first sign of rash.
  • Ultra-rapid metabolizers of codeine may experience life-threatening respiratory depression even at normal doses.
  • Codeine is contraindicated for post-operative pain in children after tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy.
  • Codeine may cause respiratory depression, especially with head injury or increased intracranial pressure.
  • Hypersensitivity reactions (swelling, breathing trouble, rash) can occur; stop medicine and seek medical help.

Common side effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Dizziness
  • Sedation
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal pain
  • Itching
  • Rash
This summary is written in plain language from the official FDA label. Always follow the directions from your own prescriber and pharmacist, and read the full label linked below.

Frequently asked questions

What is Acetaminophen and Codeine used for?

According to the FDA label, it is used to relieve mild to moderately severe pain.

What is the maximum daily dose of acetaminophen?

The FDA label states the maximum 24-hour dose of acetaminophen is 4000 mg.

Can children take this medicine?

Yes, but the usual dose of codeine in children is 0.5 mg per kg of body weight. However, codeine is contraindicated for post-operative pain in children after tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy.

What should I do if I take too much acetaminophen?

The FDA label instructs patients to seek medical attention immediately if they take more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen per day, even if they feel well.

What are the signs of a serious skin reaction?

The FDA label warns that acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions such as rash, blisters, or skin peeling. Stop using the medicine at the first sign of a skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity.

Other medications

Sources

Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.