Is Codeine an Anti-Inflammatory?

Is Codeine an Anti-Inflammatory?

Codeine is a well-known medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. Codeine is a strong pain reliever that is typically used when other weaker painkillers have not done the job of easing pain effectively. People know a lot of information about codeine and what it does, simply because of its prevalence. However, people will still ask questions about their medication, including how it works and what it does to their bodies. In this article, we will answer the commonly asked question regarding whether codeine is an anti-inflammatory or not. 

Is Codeine an anti-inflammatory?

Codeine is a pain medication that is classed as a narcotic. Codeine is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is not an anti-inflammatory drug. Anti-inflammatory drugs are medications that are used to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a common cause of pain and swelling. Common anti-inflammatory drugs include ibuprofen and aspirin. As a narcotic pain medication, Codeine works in a different way than an anti-inflammatory pain reliever. 

How does Codeine work?

The way Codeine works to relieve pain is by binding itself to pain receptors. It blocks the transmission of pain signals to the brain, which thus helps to reduce the sensation of pain. This is different to how an anti-inflammatory pain reliever works. An anti-inflammatory pain reliever works by reducing inflammation and swelling that can cause pain. 

What is Codeine typically used for?

Codeine is typically used to treat moderate to severe pain in patients that have not found relief from other pain-relieving medications. Codeine can also be used to help treat coughs and other respiratory symptoms. When Codeine is taken in low doses it can help suppress a cough reflex and thus reduce the severity of coughing. It is not recommended to use Codeine for the treatment of chronic coughs as it is not as effective in these situations.

NSAID

What is an NSAID?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs, are a class of medications that are used to reduce inflammation, swelling and pain in humans. NSAIDs work by inhibiting the production of certain enzymes and chemicals in the body that can contribute to inflammation.

Is Codeine a NSAID drug?

No, Codeine is not classified as an NSAID. Codeine is an opioid painkiller. This means it works by activating opioid receptors in the central nervous system to reduce the perception of pain. NSAIDs on the other hand are a class of medications that are used to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. They work by inhibiting the production of enzymes and chemicals in the body that contribute to inflammation. 

Compound Painkillers

What is a compound painkiller?

A compound painkiller is a medication that is made up of two or more active ingredients that are then combined to achieve a desired therapeutic effect. This form of painkiller is often used to treat more complex pain caused by conditions that cannot be effectively managed with a single medication.

Compound painkillers can be made using a combination of many different types of medications. This can include opioids (such as Codeine), NSAIDs, and other different types of analgesics. Compound painkillers may also contain other ingredients such as muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory agents. These will help to enhance their effectiveness further.

Is Codeine a compound painkiller?

Codeine is not considered to be a compound painkiller on its own. It is an opioid analgesic, which means that it is a medication used to relieve pain by activating opioid receptors in the central nervous system. However, codeine can be combined with other medications to form a compound painkiller. Codeine is often combined with paracetamolacetaminophen or ibuprofen to increase its effectiveness in relieving pain caused by inflammation. The combination of these medications may be used to treat more severe pain or to provide additional benefits such as reducing inflammation or suppressing coughs.

Can Ibuprofen & Codeine be taken together?

Yes, it is possible to take ibuprofen and codeine together. These medications can be effective in relieving pain when used in combination. However, you must follow the dosing instructions that should have been provided to you by your healthcare provider or the package label and to not take more than the recommended amount of either medication. Taking ibuprofen and codeine together can provide people with additional pain relief beyond what either medication can do alone. However, it is important to be aware that both medications can have potential side effects, including stomach upset, ulcers, and increased risk of heart attack and stroke

Can you get Codeine from EU Meds?

Yes, you are able to purchase prescription-only Codeine online from EU Meds. 

Sources

https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/co-codaprin/

https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ibuprofen-and-codeine-nurofen-plus/

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.4592.pdf

https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/referrals/codeine-containing-medicines

https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/muscles-bones-joints/over-the-counter-painkillers