Tylenol with Codeine

Generic name: Acetaminophen and codeine phosphate

What is Tylenol with Codeine?

Tylenol with Codeine, a narcotic analgesic, is used to treat mild to moderately severe pain. It contains two drugs—acetaminophen and codeine. Acetaminophen, a fever-reducing analgesic, is used to reduce pain and fever. Codeine, a narcotic analgesic, is used to treat pain that is moderate to severe.

What is the most important information I should know about Tylenol with Codeine?

Tylenol with Codeine contains a narcotic (codeine) and, even if taken in prescribed amounts, can cause physical and psychological addiction if taken for a long enough time.

Tylenol with Codeine tablets contain a sulfite that may cause allergic reactions in some people. These reactions may include shock and severe, possibly life-threatening, asthma attacks. People with asthma are more likely to be sensitive to sulfites.

Who should not take Tylenol with Codeine?

You should not use Tylenol with Codeine if you are sensitive to acetaminophen or codeine.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Tylenol with Codeine?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Tylenol with Codeine. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have ever had liver, kidney, thyroid, or adrenal disease. Make sure your doctor knows if you have experienced a head injury, difficulty urinating, an enlarged prostate, or stomach problems such as a stomach ulcer.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Dosage will depend on how severe your pain is and how you respond to the drug.

To Relieve Pain Adults: A single dose may contain from 15 milligrams (mg) to 60 mg of codeine phosphate and from 300 to 1,000 mg of acetaminophen. The maximum dose in a 24-hour period should be 360 mg of codeine phosphate and 4,000 mg of acetaminophen. Your doctor will determine the amounts of codeine phosphate and acetaminophen taken in each dose. Doses may be repeated up to every 4 hours.

Single doses above 60 mg of codeine do not provide sufficient pain relief to balance the increased number of side effects.

Adults may also take Tylenol with Codeine elixir (liquid). Tylenol with Codeine elixir contains 120 mg of acetaminophen and 12 mg of codeine phosphate per teaspoonful. The usual adult dose is 1 tablespoonful every 4 hours as needed.

Children 3 to 12 years old: The safety of Tylenol with Codeine elixir has not been established in children under 3 years old. Children 3 to 6 years old may take 1 teaspoonful 3 or 4 times daily. Children 7 to 12 years old may take 2 teaspoonfuls 3 or 4 times daily.

For tablets, the dose of codeine is 0.5 mg/kg.

How should I take Tylenol with Codeine?

Tylenol with Codeine may be taken with meals or with milk, but not with alcohol.

What should I avoid while taking Tylenol with Codeine?

If you generally drink 3 or more alcoholic beverages per day, check with your doctor before using Tylenol with Codeine and other acetaminophen-containing products, and never take more than the recommended dosage. There is a possibility of damage to the liver when large amounts of alcohol and acetaminophen are combined.

This drug may cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive a car or operate potentially dangerous machinery. Do not participate in any activities that require full attention when using Tylenol with Codeine until you are sure of this medication's effect on you.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Tylenol with Codeine?

If Tylenol with Codeine is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Tylenol with Codeine with the following: antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, tranylcyromine, phenelzine, and imipramine; drugs that control spasms, such as benztropine; major tranquilizers, such as clozapine and chlorpromazine; narcotic painkillers, such as propoxyphene; or tranquilizers, such as alprazolam and diazepam.

What are the possible side effects of Tylenol with Codeine?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: dizziness, light-headedness, nausea, sedation, shortness of breath, vomiting

At high doses, this medication may cause respiratory depression.

Can I receive Tylenol with Codeine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Tylenol with Codeine during pregnancy are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant.

Some studies, but not others, have reported that codeine appears in breast milk. Therefore, nursing mothers should talk to their doctor about using Tylenol with Codeine.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Tylenol with Codeine?

If you take Tylenol with Codeine on a regular schedule, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Tylenol with Codeine?

Store away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep the liquid form from freezing.