Codeine
“This page provides important general information for pet owners whose animals have been prescribed Codeine for pets in Perth during a consultation by Dr Noor.”
Key Information
- Codeine is used to reduce pain and to calm coughing.
- You can give it either on an empty stomach or with a meal. If your pet’s stomach seems upset, giving it with food may help.
- Sleepiness and trouble passing stool are the side effects seen most often.
- This medicine is a tightly controlled drug.
- Keep it locked away or otherwise stored safely where it cannot be seen.
- It must be used only for the specific animal it was prescribed for. Giving it to someone else or selling it is against the law.
Note: This handout is meant to address common questions. It does not include every detail about this medicine and does not replace guidance from your veterinary care team.
Description
- Codeine is a medicine used for pain relief and for cough control.
- It comes as tablets that are given by mouth.
- Codeine may also be sold in products that include other active ingredients.
Uses
This medicine is not specifically approved for animals, but it is approved for people. Your veterinarian may choose to prescribe it in a way not listed on the label for:
- Reducing coughing in dogs
- Helping with mild to moderate pain in dogs and cats
Before this medication is given
No medicine is completely risk-free for every animal. Before your pet starts this medicine, talk with your veterinarian about:
- Any other medicines, vitamins, or other products your animal is taking
- Any health problems your animal has now, or has had before
- Any bad reactions or unwanted effects your animal has had from medicines in the past
- The possible risks if your animal is pregnant or nursing
Warnings for animals
Products that combine codeine with acetaminophen must NEVER be given to cats or ferrets. Acetaminophen can kill cats and ferrets.
Do not use this medicine in animals:
- That have had an allergy to codeine or to other opioid medicines
- That have diarrhea caused by a poisonous substance
- That have a blockage in the stomach or intestines
- That have taken selegiline or linezolid at any time in the last 2 weeks
Use extra care in animals:
- That have a head injury
- That have a history of seizures
- That have thyroid, heart, lung, kidney, liver, stomach, or adrenal gland problems
- That are pregnant or nursing
- That are working animals or service animals, because they may become too sleepy to do their tasks
Some animal sports or competitions do not allow certain medicines. If your animal competes, check the rules while your animal is taking this medicine.
Warnings for humans
- Clean your hands after you handle any medicine.
- This is a controlled drug and must be used only by the animal it was prescribed for. It is illegal to give it to anyone else or to sell it.
How do I give this medication?
Give this medicine exactly the way your veterinarian ordered it. Follow the directions on the prescription label every time.
- You may give it with food or without food. If your pet gets an upset stomach, giving it with food may help.
Side effects
Common — call your veterinarian if these problems are strong, keep happening, or get worse:
- Sleepiness
- Trouble passing stool, eating less than usual, or vomiting
Severe — stop giving the medicine and contact your veterinarian right away if you notice:
- Breathing problems
- Shaking muscles, seizures, or unusually high excitement
How will I know it’s working?
- Most animals should seem improved within 1 to 2 hours.
Call your veterinary clinic if your animal’s problems get worse or do not get better.
How long will the medication effects last?
- The medicine should be fully worn off within 24 hours after the last dose.
- The effects may last longer if your animal’s kidneys or liver do not work as well.
How long do I give it for?
This medicine may be used for different time periods. Keep giving it for the length of time your veterinarian instructs.
- When codeine is used by itself (not mixed with other ingredients), it is a tightly controlled drug. Your veterinarian is not allowed to add refills. If more is needed, a new prescription must be written.
If your animal has been taking this medicine for a long time, the dose must be reduced slowly over time.
- Stopping suddenly may lead to withdrawal problems.
- Speak with your veterinarian before you stop this medicine.
Overdose
Too much can cause very heavy sleepiness or trouble breathing.
If you see an overdose or think one may have happened, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison help service right away (a fee may apply):
If you can, have the medicine container or label with you.
Missed dose
In most situations, if you forget a dose:
- Give it as soon as you remember, and then go back to the usual schedule.
If it is almost time for the next dose:
- Do not give the missed dose.
- Give the next dose at the normal time.
- Continue with the normal schedule.
If you are not sure what to do, call your veterinary clinic. Do not give two doses at once and do not give extra doses.
Storage
- Keep the medicine in its original container at normal room temperature.
- Store where children and animals cannot reach it.
- Because it is a controlled drug, keep it in a secure place that is not visible.
Disposal
Because this is a controlled drug, get rid of any leftover medicine as soon as you can.
- Do not flush it in a toilet.
- Do not pour it into a sink.
Ways to dispose of unused or expired medicine include:
- Drug take-back locations: This is the best option when available. To find a nearby location, contact local law enforcement or your local waste management office.
- Do not keep leftover medicine and do not give it to anyone else to use.
- Home disposal: Mix the medicine with coffee grounds or kitty litter, put it into a sealed plastic bag, and place it in the trash.
Questions about Codeine for pets in Perth?
Speak with your veterinarian.
“Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided as general educational material only. Every animal’s health situation is unique, and treatment decisions must be based on a full veterinary assessment. Always follow the specific instructions given during your consultation, and contact the prescribing veterinarian if you have any concerns.”