Codeine

codeine (kō`dēn), alkaloid found in opium. It is a narcotic whose effects, though less potent, resemble those of morphine. An effective cough suppressant, it is mainly used in cough medicines. Like other narcotics, codeine is addictive. See drug addiction and drug abuse.

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codeine

Heterocyclic compound, a naturally occurring alkaloid found in opium, used in medicine as a cough suppressant and analgesic drug. It exerts its effects by acting on the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Chemically it is methylmorphine, the methyl ether of morphine, an alkaloid of the phenanthrene type; its action is weaker than that of morphine, and it is less likely to lead to drug addiction.

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codeine

a white crystalline alkaloid prepared mainly from morphine and having a similar but milder action. It is used as an analgesic, an antidiarrhoeal, and to relieve coughing. Formula: C₁₈H₂₁NO₃

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codeine [′kō‚dēn]

(pharmacology)

C₁₈H₂₁NO₃An alkaloid prepared from morphine; used as mild analgesic and cough suppressant.

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Codeine 

an alkaloid contained in opium. Codeine is similar to morphine in chemical structure; however, its analgesic effect is less powerful. It relieves irritability of the coughing center. Codeine or codeine phosphate is prescribed for coughs. It is administered in the form of tablets or powders, mixed with sugar, sodium hydrocarbonate, terpin hydrate, thermopsis, and licorice powder. Codeine, in combination with soporifics and bromide preparations, is used as a sedative. Codeine is not prescribed for children. Prolonged use of codeine may cause addiction.