Acetaminophen, Codeine Phosphate
Acetaminophen and codeine phosphate is a combination medication used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer, while codeine phosphate is an opioid analgesic that works by blocking pain signals in the brain.This medication is indicated for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain, such as that associated with injury, surgery, or certain medical conditions.
Dosage should be individualized based on the severity of pain and the patient's response. Generally, the recommended dosage is 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours as needed for pain relief. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 4 grams of acetaminophen and 360 mg of codeine phosphate.
Contraindications include hypersensitivity to acetaminophen or codeine phosphate, respiratory depression, acute or severe bronchial asthma, paralytic ileus, and significant respiratory depression.
Special precautions should be taken in patients with respiratory disorders, liver or kidney impairment, history of substance abuse, and in elderly or debilitated patients. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication, as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity.
Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and respiratory depression. Serious side effects such as allergic reactions, liver toxicity, and serotonin syndrome may occur rarely.
This medication may interact with other drugs that cause drowsiness, such as benzodiazepines, sedatives, and alcohol, increasing the risk of respiratory depression. Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or serotonergic drugs may lead to serotonin syndrome. Use caution when combining with other medications that contain acetaminophen to avoid exceeding the recommended maximum daily dose.
