Codeine

Question 1

Introduction

Answer 1

• Opioid analgesic - Less potent analgesic properties to morphine, has mild sedative effects

Question 2

Pharmacodynamics

Answer 2

• Opiate agonist in the CNS
• Agonises opioid receptors - MU, Kappa and Delta resulting in the opening of the potassium channels which cause hyper polarisation and reduced excitability
• Inhibits the opening of calcium channels
• Can cause respiratory depression, Vasodilation which can cause hypotension.
• Releases histamine

Question 3

Pharmacokenetics

Answer 3

• Absortion GI tract
• Widely Distributed
• Metabolised Liver
• Excreted in the Kidneys