Codeine

Drug Info

• Drug Type: Narcotic Analgesic
• Used For: Mild to moderate pain, Cough
• Species: Dogs, Cats
• Administered: 15 mg, 30 mg and 60 mg tablets, Injectable
• FDA Approved: No

General Description

Codeine is used to treat mild to moderate pain in pets. It may also be used as a cough suppressant or and anti-diarrhea medication. It blocks the pain signals, reducing the pain felt, but not treating the cause of the pain.

How It Works

Codeine is derived from the opium poppy plant. It works by mimicking the natural pain reducing chemicals in your pet’s brain. These chemicals combine with the opioid receptors in the brain and block the reception of pain signals.

Storage Information

Store in a tightly sealed container at room temperature.

Missed Dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your pet two doses at once.

Side Effects and Drug Reactions

Codeine may result in these side effects:

• Sedation
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Labored breathing

 
Codeine may react with these drugs:

• Anticholinergic
• Central Nervous System depressants
• Amitraz
• Furazolidone
• Selegiline
• Opiate antagonists
• Nalaxone
• Dexamethasone
• Rifampin
• Phenobarbital

DO NOT GIVE ANY DRUGS CONTAINING ACETAMINOPHEN TO CATS - Some formulations of sedatives contain codeine along with acetaminophen (Tylenol), which is not safe to use in cats.

USE CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO PETS WITH HYPOTHYROIDISM,  KIDNEY DISEASE, LIVER DISEASE, ADDISON’S DISEASES, PREVIOUS SEIZURE ACTIVITY, HEART DISEASE, RESPIRATORY DISEASE, OR HEAD TRAUMA

USE CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO OLDER PETS

USE CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO PREGNANT OR LACTATING PETS