Codeine is one of the most effective cough suppressants, as well as an effective pain medication. Since in proper doses it has few adverse effects and a low risk of addiction it is tempting to use this in children with cough or in pain.
Unfortunately the metabolism of codeine in children is highly variable. What could be a normal dose in one child, can result in a fatal overdose in another.
For this reason codeine should NEVER be prescribed in children. However a recent study showed some emergency room physicians have continued to use it in pediatric patients. Parents beware and do not accept it!
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