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Empirin Codeine

Low back pain facts

  • Functions of the low back, or lumbar area, include structural support, movement, and protection of certain body tissues.
  • Pain in the low back can relate to the bony lumbar spine, discs between the vertebrae, ligaments around the spine and discs, spinal cord and nerves, muscles of the low back, internal organs of the pelvis and abdomen, and the skin covering the lumbar area.
  • Treatment of low back pain is optimally directed toward a diagnosed or suspected specific cause. For acute lumbar strain, use of a home remedy initially can be beneficial.

What is the anatomy of the low back?

The first step to understanding the various causes of low back pain is learning about the normal design (anatomy) of the tissues of this area. Important structures of the low back that can be related to symptoms there include the bony lumbar spine (vertebrae, singular = v...

Empirin Codeine

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DRUG DESCRIPTION

Aspirin and Codeine
(acetylsalicylic acid and codeine)

(WARNING: May be habit forming)

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) occurs as white crystals, commonly tabular or needle-like, or white, crystalline powder. It is odorless or has a faint odor. Its chemical name is: 2-(acetyloxy)benzoic acid. Its molecular formula is:

    C9H8O4 with a molecular weight of 180.16

Codeine is an alkaloid, obtained from opium or prepared from morphine by methylation. Codeine phosphate occurs as fine, white, needle-shaped crystals, or white, crystalline powder. It is odorless and is affected by light. Its chemical name is: 7,8-didehydro-4,5oe epoxy-3-methoxy-17~ methylmorphinan~6oe-ol phosphate (1 :1) (salt) hemihydrate. Its molecular formula is:

    C18H21NO3†H3PO4†1/2 H2O with a molecular weight of 406.37

Aspirin and codeine phosphate tablets for oral administration combine the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, corn starch, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, and stearic acid.

What are the possible side effects of aspirin and codeine (Empirin with Codeine)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • black, bloody, or tarry stools;
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
  • dizziness, feeling like you might pass out;
  • severe nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain;
  • swelling, or pain lasting longer than 10 days;
  • ...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Empirin Codeine »

What are the precautions when taking aspirin and codeine (Empirin Codeine)?

Consult your...

Read All Potential Precautions of Empirin Codeine »

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/8/2004
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


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