FDA Reports on Codeine

Posted by Brenda Lane Aug 21, 2007

This week the FDA released a new report warning mothers of a rare, but serious side effect from taking codeine (a commonly-prescribed painkiller for postpartum pain) on their breastfed infants.

Findings report that this rare side effect is the equivalent of a morphine overdose for women who are "rapid metabolizers" of the drug. Some evidence shows that certain people who are rapid metabolizers convert codeine more rapidly and completely than what happens in most cases. In one reported case, the newborn died from the overdose effect of this drug through breastfeeding.

The FDA recommends the following:

" Nursing women taking codeine need to carefully watch their infants for signs of morphine overdose and seek medical attention immediately if the infant develops increased sleepiness (more than usual), difficulty breastfeeding or breathing, or decreased tone (limpness). Nursing mothers may also experience overdose symptoms such as extreme sleepiness, confusion, shallow breathing or severe constipation."

Physicians are also advised to prescribe the lowest dosage available and to carefully monitor both mothers and babies for this rare but life-threatening side effect of codeine.

Since medications can contain a combination of drugs (for example, Tylenol plus codeine), it is always important for mothers to check with their provider on what medications are being offered, get a list of ingredients and information about appropriate dosages from their providers prior to taking any drug.

Brenda