How to Take Acetaminophen/Codeine

Acetaminophen/codeine, commonly known as Tylenol with codeine, is a painkiller used for mild to severe pain and discomfort. Codeine is an opiate and is a more powerful painkiller than basic acetaminophen, and requires more precaution when administering. Read on to learn how to take acetaminophen/codeine.

Things You'll Need

• Acetaminophen/codeine

Instructions

1. Dosing of acetaminophen/codeine is dependent on the level of pain in the patient and the size and age of the patient. The physician determines the amount of pills for the patient to take in each dose.

2. For children ages seven to 12, there should be about four doses a day. For adults, take a dose every four hours as needed based on patient discomfort.

3. Avoid habit-forming use by sticking to the dosages prescribed by your physician. Codeine is an opiate derived from the more well-known morphine, and is a habit-forming controlled substance.

4. Make yourself aware of the side affects of acetaminophen/codeine.

5. Common side affects include, nausea, dizziness, mood swings and vision changes. Consult your doctor if side effects persist.

Tips & Warnings

• This medication is primarily used for pain relief but can also be used in elixir form as a cough suppressant.

• Contact your physician if side effects become prominent or chronic.

• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember. If it is time for your next dose, disregard the missed dose.

• Drink plenty of water while taking acetaminophen/codeine to avoid constipation.

• Watch the amount of over-the-counter acetaminophen you consume while taking acetaminophen/codeine. The maximum daily dose of acetaminophen should be no more than four grams.

• Tell your doctor if you are suffering from kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, urinary retention, prostate enlargement, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, gall bladder disease, a head injury or Addison's disease before taking acetaminophen/codeine.

• If taking acetaminophen/codeine in liquid form, you should measure the dose in a special measuring spoon.

• Eat plenty of fiber while taking acetaminophen/codeine.

• Store acetaminophen/codeine at room temperature and keep it dry.

• Tell your doctor if you are currently taking brompheniramine, diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, amitriptyline, doxepin, serotonin, fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine, amoxapine, clomipramine, desipramine, imipramine, nortriptyline, protriptyline, belladonna, clidinium, dicyclomine, hyoscyamine, ipratropium, propantheline, scopolamine, chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, thioridazine, and prochlorperazine, phenobarbital, amobarbital, secobarbital, alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, flurazepam or temazepam before taking acetaminophen/codeine.

• In the event of an overdose, contact the local poison control center immediately.

• Sharing acetaminophen/codeine or selling your prescription to it is illegal as it is a controlled substance in the United States.

• Do not take sleeping pills, antihistamines, sedatives or tranquilizers while taking acetaminophen codeine unless it is approved by your doctor.

• Do not take any more acetaminophen/codeine than is prescribed by your doctor.

• Do not drink alcohol while taking acetaminophen/codeine.

• Stop taking acetaminophen/codeine immediately and see a doctor if you have any of the following side effects: slow or weak breathing, seizures, clammy skin, weakness, severe dizziness, unconciousness, yellow skin and eyes, fatigue, bleeding or bruising.

• Consult a doctor but continue taking acetaminophen/codeine if you have any of the following symptoms: constipation, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, poor appetite, dizziness, tiredness, muscle twitching, sweating, itching, decreased urination or sex drive.