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Codeine

Robitussin AC component

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Sourced from primary literature. Awaiting credentialed clinical reviewer — our editorial process.

Drug Class

Respiratory

Routes

PO

Indications

Antitussive

Mechanism of Action

Mu-opioid receptor agonist (prodrug converted to morphine by CYP2D6). Suppresses cough reflex in medullary cough center. Mild analgesic.

Side effects & warnings

DEA Schedule II (alone) or V (in combination). Variable CYP2D6 metabolism across species. Constipation, sedation. Poor analgesic in dogs (CYP2D6 polymorphism).

Species with Codeine dosing data (1 dose rule)

Dog (Domestic)

Controlled Substance

Controlled substance

Evidence levels across 1 dose rule

Moderate×1

Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.

Backed by a published primary source

  • · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Sample dosing (1 of 1 cited rule)

Free-tier preview — dog and cat dosing. Pro and Student unlock all 1 species including reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine.

SpeciesRouteDoseFrequencyEvidenceSource
Dog (Domestic)PO0.5–2 mg/kgq6-12hModeratePlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

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Calculate Dosage for Codeine