Adults and children age 12 and older can usually take codeine. But in some cases taking codeine is not recommended.
Who may not be able to take codeine
To make sure it's safe for you, tell your GP or pharmacist before starting codeine if you have:
- ever had an allergic reaction to codeine or any other medicine
- a lung or breathing problem
- a head injury
- adrenal gland problems (Addison's disease)
- a condition which causes seizures or fits
- an addiction to alcohol
- an underactive thyroid gland
- kidney or liver problems
- gallstones
- an enlarged prostate
- heart and blood pressure problems
- myasthenia gravis (a rare illness that causes muscle weakness)
- symptoms of ulcerative colitis (a bowel condition)
- been trying to get pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding - codeine is not generally recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless it is prescribed by your doctor
Children and codeine
Do not give codeine to babies and children under 12.
Children age 12 to 18 years can take codeine for pain, but only if other medicines have not worked. Use the lowest dose that works for no more than 3 days. If they still have symptoms after 3 days, contact a GP.
Do not give codeine to children age 12 to 18 years if they have:
- breathing problems
- had their tonsils or adenoids removed because of a sleep problem called obstructive sleep apnoea - it could be dangerous for the child
Codeine and pregnancy
Codeine is generally not recommended during pregnancy, unless prescribed by your doctor.
If you take codeine during pregnancy there's a small risk that your baby will become used to having codeine. This means that they may have withdrawal symptoms. If this happens, your baby may need extra time in hospital after birth for observation.
It is important to treat pain in pregnancy. For some pregnant women with severe pain, codeine might be the best option. Your GP can help you decide what's right for you and your baby.
Codeine and breastfeeding
Do not take codeine if you're breastfeeding. Small amounts of codeine pass into breast milk. This can cause breathing problems in your baby and make them feel drowsy.
Talk to your GP or pharmacist. They will be able to recommend a more suitable painkiller.
Codeine and fertility
If you're taking codeine for a short time and at normal doses, there's no evidence that it reduces fertility in either men or women.
Talk to a pharmacist or your GP if you've been taking it for a long time and you're:
- worried about your fertility
- trying to get pregnant
Non-urgent advice: Tell your GP if you're:
- trying to get pregnant
- pregnant
- breastfeeding
They will be able to give you advice.
Contraception and codeine
Codeine does not affect any type of contraception. This includes the combined pill and emergency contraception.