codeine

noun

co·​deine ˈkō-ˌdēn 

: a morphine derivative C₁₈H₂₁NO₃·H₂O that is found in opium, is weaker in action than morphine, and is used especially as an analgesic and antitussive

Examples of codeine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For a 71-year-old male patient suffering from restless leg syndrome, the board alleged, Alvarado prescribed Tylenol with codeine and roughly 400 milligrams of tramadol per day. —Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2024

The move will place marijuana alongside Tylenol with codeine and other drugs determined to have medical applications. —Rafi Schwartz, theweek, 1 May 2024

The move would place marijuana in the ranks of ketamine, testosterone, and products containing less than 90 milligrams of codeine. —Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 30 Apr. 2024

Deaths linked to natural or semi-synthetic drugs, such as morphine and codeine, also fell from 12,135 In 2022 to 10,171 in 2023. —Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 15 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

French codéine, from Greek kōdeia poppyhead

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

codeine

noun

co·​deine ˈkō-ˌdēn 

ˈkōd-ē-ən

: a drug that is obtained from opium, is weaker than morphine, and is used as a pain reliever and in cough remedies

Medical Definition

codeine

noun

co·​deine ˈkō-ˌdēn, ˈkōd-ē-ən 

: a morphine derivative that is found in opium, is weaker in action than morphine, and is used chiefly in the form of its sulfate (C₁₈H₂₁NO₃)₂·H₂SO₄ or phosphate C₁₈H₂₁NO₃·H₃PO₄ especially as a pain reliever and cough suppressant

Although codeine is potentially addicting, it rarely causes physical dependence when taken orally for a short time.

—Consumer Reports