Acetaminophen and codeine

Brand Name:Tylenol #3, Tylenol #2, and many others

Prescription needed: Yes. Because it is a narcotic, repeats and ??'phone-in? prescriptions are not allowed.

What is this drug used for?

This drug is used to relieve mild to moderately severe pain. When combined, a narcotic analgesic and acetaminophen may provide better pain relief than either medicine used alone and, relief of pain may come at lower doses of each medicine.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

Do not take this medicine if you have had a severe allergy to hydrocodone oxycodone or codeine. This is not uncommon, especially allergies to codeine. It is important to disclose your medical history, including any pre-existing conditions. Narcotic use for treatment of pain is rarely addictive; however, it is important to know that narcotics can cause dependence and changes in behaviour. Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • a history of alcohol and/or other drug abuse
  • brain disease or head injury
  • colitis
  • convulsions
  • significant emotional problems or mental illness
  • emphysema, asthma, or other chronic lung disease
  • hepatitis or other liver disease
  • kidney disease
  • under active thyroid
  • enlarged prostate or problems with urination
  • gallbladder disease or gallstones
  • heart disease

What about possible side effects?

Tell your doctor of any and all side effects that you experience while taking this drug, including:

  • drowsiness
  • dizziness

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following more serious side effects:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • constipation

Although the most common side-effect is constipation, this drug may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual symptoms while taking this medicine.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications) as they may interact with another drug, increasing or decreasing its effectiveness and safety. In the case of this medicine, tell your doctor specifically if you are taking any other sedating drugs and/or:

  • tricyclic anti-depressants
  • barbiturate anesthetics
  • carbamazepine
  • ritonavir
  • phenothiazines

Other information:

Children. Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established.

Seniors are especially sensitive to the effects of narcotic analgesics. This may increase the chance of side effects, especially breathing problems.

Pregnancy. Women who are pregnant should talk to their doctor. The effects on the fetus have not been completely established.

Women who are nursing. Talk to your doctor. Some studies, but not others, have reported detectable amounts of codeine in breast milk.

People who drive or operate machinery should not do so until they know the impact this medicine has on them personally. This drug may cause drowsiness and dizziness.

Alcohol: Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness.

Overdose: Call 911 immediately if you seriously exceed the recommended dosage and/or if you experience any of the following symptoms or any other unusual reaction:

  • cold, clammy skin
  • severe confusion
  • convulsions
  • diarrhea
  • severe dizziness
  • severe drowsiness
  • increased sweating
  • low blood pressure
  • continuous nausea or vomiting
  • severe nervousness or restlessness
  • pinpoint pupils of eyes
  • shortness of breath or unusually slow or troubled breathing
  • slow heartbeat
  • stomach cramps or pain
  • severe weakness


Stopping the drug: Talk to your doctor before stopping if you have been regularly taking this medicine for several weeks. Your dose should be decreased gradually.

If you miss a dose: take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Storage conditions: closed container; cool, dry location away from excess moisture (not in the bathroom); always out of reach of children.

Dietary precautions: none.