Aspirin and Codeine: MedlinePlus Drug Information

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Other drug names:	A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 0-9

Aspirin and Codeine

(as' pir in) (koe' deen)

Contents of this page:
Why is this medication prescribed? How should this medicine be used? What special precautions should I follow? What special dietary instructions should I follow? What should I do if I forget a dose? What side effects can this medication cause?	What storage conditions are needed for this medicine? In case of emergency/overdose What other information should I know? Brand names Other names

IMPORTANT WARNING: Return to top

This monograph has been discontinued. Please see the codeine monograph for information about this medication.

Why is this medication prescribed? Return to top

This combination of drugs is used to relieve mild to moderately severe pain.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used? Return to top

The combination of aspirin and codeine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken every 4 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take aspirin and codeine exactly as directed.

Codeine can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.

What special precautions should I follow? Return to top

Before taking aspirin and codeine,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to aspirin, codeine, sulfite, or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other pain relievers; anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); antidepressants; corticosteroids; MAO inhibitors [phenelzine (Nardil) or tranylcypromine (Parnate)]; medications for cough, cold, or allergies; medications for diabetes, arthritis, or gout; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had a bleeding disorder (hemophilia, von Willebrand's disease), ulcer disease, liver or kidney disease, a history of alcoholism, anemia, lung or thyroid disease, prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary problems.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking aspirin and codeine, call your doctor.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking aspirin and codeine.
you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

What special dietary instructions should I follow? Return to top

Aspirin and codeine may cause an upset stomach. Take aspirin and codeine with food or milk.

What should I do if I forget a dose? Return to top

This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take aspirin and codeine regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause? Return to top

Aspirin and codeine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

dizziness
lightheadedness
drowsiness
upset stomach
vomiting
constipation
stomach pain
difficulty urinating

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

difficulty breathing
rash or itching
ringing in the ears or decreased hearing
abnormal bruising or bleeding

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine? Return to top

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose Return to top

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know? Return to top

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand names Return to top

Empirin with Codeine®

Other names Return to top

ASA and Codeine

Last Reviewed - 09/01/2008

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. Disclaimer

AHFS^® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2009. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.