Tylenol with codeine is frequently prescribed to relieve mild to
moderate pain that is not caused by inflammation (various forms of
arthritis, for example). The combined effect of the acetaminophen
(Tylenol) with the narcotic analgesic of the codeine produces more
effective pain relief than does either one of the medications taken
alone.
Patients who have a history of allergic reactions to
Tylenol products, codeine, or any other codeine-like or
morphine-derived medications are likely to experience similar allergic
reactions to Tylenol with codeine and should avoid its use.
Tylenol
with codeine should not be taken in conjunction with antibiotics that
might cause diarrhea. Many other drugs, including opioids and alcohol,
should be avoided when taking this medication.
Some drug
interactions will diminish the beneficial effects of a particular
medication while other interactions will produce an increased, or
exaggerated, effect. These interactions are impossible to predict and
may lead to serious complications. It is always advisable to consult
your prescribing physician about drug interactions before beginning
therapy with any new medications.
Tylenol with codeine is
known to cause interactions with drugs taken for hormonal dysfunction
of the adrenal, thyroid, and prostate glands.
Any history of
liver disease needs to be reported to the prescribing physician.
Tylenol with codeine is metabolized in the liver and its presence may
compound any damage done by hepatitis, excessive alcohol intake,
cirrhosis, or any other liver ailments.
The effects, and side
effects, of Tylenol with codeine pass from the mother to the nursing
child via breast milk. This medication should be avoided while nursing.
Taking it during pregnancy can be risky so it is critically important
to the unborn child to discuss all treatment options before taking this
medication while pregnant.
All narcotics and narcotic-like
formulations carry the risk of addiction. Taking this drug in high
doses and/or for long periods of time can cause tolerance and
dependence. Close medical monitoring is important throughout the
treatment period when taking this medication and unpleasant withdrawal
symptoms are quite likely if the drug is abruptly stopped.
Med-Help is for informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations.