Acetaminophen with codeine

Description

In most countries, a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is required to buy acetaminophen with codeine. Codeine is an opioid and a controlled substance due to the risk of addiction, misuse, and overdose.

How to get a prescription

• Consult a doctor: If you have moderate to severe pain that is not managed by other medications, speak with a doctor about whether a prescription for acetaminophen with codeine is appropriate for you.
• Discuss alternatives: Your doctor may recommend a range of effective non-prescription products first, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen on its own.
• Receive a secure prescription: In some regions, medications containing codeine must be prescribed on a secure, tamper-proof form.
• Pick up from a pharmacy: Once you have a valid prescription, you can pick it up from a licensed pharmacy. You may be required to show identification. 

Important safety information

• Addiction and dependence: Codeine is an opioid that carries a risk of addiction, even when used as prescribed. You should only use the smallest effective dose for the shortest period of time.
• Life-threatening side effects: Taking this medication with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants can cause severe drowsiness, breathing problems, coma, and death.
• Liver damage: Taking more than the recommended daily dose of acetaminophen (4,000 mg) can cause severe liver damage. Be aware of other medicines you take that may also contain acetaminophen.

• Do not breastfeed: Codeine passes into breast milk and can have life-threatening effects on a nursing infant, including slowed breathing.
• Children under 18: Codeine is not recommended for children under 12, and it should not be used in children under 18 after surgery to remove tonsils or adenoids. Some children are “ultra-rapid metabolizers” of codeine, which can lead to dangerously high levels of morphine in their bodies.