Codeine

Generic Name

codeine

Trade Name

Paveral

Indication

management of pain, diarrhea, cough suppressant

Action

Binds to opiate receptors in the CNS and alters perception of pain while producing a general depression of the CNS.  This depression also causes a decrease in the cough reflex and GI motility.

Therapeutic Class

allergy, cold, cough remedy, antitussive, opioid analgesic

Pharmacologic Class

opioid agonist

Nursing Considerations

may cause alterations in mentation, hypotension, constipation, nausea, vomiting

assess BP, pulse, and respiratory rate prior to administration and frequently during administration

use caution if patient is receiving MAO Inhibitors

Narcan (naloxone) is the antidote for opioid agonists