Terpin Hydrate and Codeine Elixir

Terpin hydrate and codeine elixir is a historical drug preparation. It is not available as a commercial product so it requires extemporaneous compounding by a specialty pharmacist under a physician’s prescription. Only physicians with special licenses can prescribe drugs that contain codeine, as it is a dangerous or regulated drug.

Uses

What is terpin hydrate and codeine elixir used for?

The two active ingredients, terpin hydrate and codeine, help patients with productive (wet cough, phlegm) and excessive coughing. Codeine is also an opioid analgesic that relieves pain.

How should I take terpin hydrate and codeine elixir?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

For oral liquid preparations, use a medical-grade measuring cup not a household spoon.

How do I store terpin hydrate and codeine elixir?

Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & Warnings

What should I know before using terpin hydrate and codeine elixir?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Do not take this preparation or other drugs that contain codeine while pregnant or breastfeeding. There is evidence that codeine and other opioids can cause negative effects on the baby including poor growth, preterm birth, still birth, birth defects, and neonatal abstinence syndrome. There is also an increased risk of maternal death.

If you become pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking this drug, talk to your doctor right away for re-evaluation of your treatment plan.

Side Effects

What side effects can occur from terpin hydrate and codeine elixir?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Allergic reaction
• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Miosis (“pinpoint’ pupils)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Dependency

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with terpin hydrate and codeine elixir?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• CNS depressants (including alcohol)
• MAOIs
• Quinidine
• Cimetidine
• Mexiletine
• Cisapride
• Metoclopramide
• Domperidone
• Antivirals

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with terpin hydrate and codeine elixir?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Do not consume alcohol while taking this preparation. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with terpin hydrate and codeine elixir?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

• Asthma
• COPD
• Respiratory failure
• Liver impairment
• Kidney impairment

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Refer to the prescription your doctor provided.

What is the dose for a child?

There is no established pediatric dose. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is terpin hydrate and codeine elixir available?

Terpin hydrate and codeine elixir is not available as a commercial product.

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.