La codeína (DCI) o metilmorfina es un alcaloide que se encuentra de forma natural en el opio. Se utiliza con fines médicos como analgésico, sedante y antitusígeno. También se la considera un narcótico. Puede presentarse en forma de cristales inodoros e incoloros o bien como polvo cristalino blanco. La codeína es un compuesto que se asimila en el hígado metabolizándose en morfina; pero, debido a la baja velocidad de transformación, es mucho menos efectiva y potente como analgésico y sedante que la morfina. Se toma en forma de comprimidos, como jarabe para aliviar la tos o por vía parenteral.La codeína es útil para aliviar dolores moderados y no tiene los mismos riesgos que la morfina de provocar dependencia o tener efectos adversos, como son: náuseas, mareos, vértigos, somnolencia, retención urinaria e hipotensión y — en dosis altas y por periodos de tiempo prolongados — puede producir depresión respiratoria.

Leer el artículo completo en Wikipedia · CC-BY-SA

Codeine is an opiate used to treat pain, as a cough medicine, and for diarrhea. It is typically used to treat mild to moderate degrees of pain. Greater benefit may occur when combined with paracetamol (acetaminophen) or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Evidence does not support its use for acute cough suppression in children or adults. In Europe it is not recommended as a cough medicine in those under twelve years of age. It is generally taken by mouth. It typically starts working after half an hour with maximum effect at two hours. The total duration of its effects last for about four to six hours. Common side effects include vomiting, constipation, itchiness, and lightheadedness. Serious side effects may include breathing difficulties and addiction. It is unclear if its use in pregnancy is safe. Care should be used during breastfeeding as it may result in opiate toxicity in the baby. Its use as of 2016 is not recommended in children. Codeine works following being broken down by the liver into morphine. How quickly this occurs depends on a person's genetics. Codeine was discovered in 1832 by Pierre Jean Robiquet. In 2013 about 361,000 kilograms of codeine were produced while 249,000 kilograms were used. This makes it the most commonly taken opiate. It is on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, the most important medications needed in a basic health system. The wholesale cost in the developing world is between 0.04 and 0.29 USD per dose as of 2014. In the United States it costs about one dollar a dose. Codeine occurs naturally and makes up about 2% of opium.

Leer el artículo completo en Wikipedia · CC-BY-SA