If you have a sensitivity to codeine (true allergic reactions to narcotics are rare), there are several other pain medication options that are available to you after a mommy makeover. Typically, a codeine allergy will not occur with the initial or first exposure of the drug but will most often take place with a subsequent exposure. Often times, codeine allergies are somewhat genetic in scope meaning that if your parents or grandparents are allergic to codeine, you are likely to be allergic to the drug as well. A codeine overdose can be fatal, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription. Overdose can cause severe muscle weakness, cold and clammy skin, pinpoint pupils, very slow breathing, extreme drowsiness, or coma. Although oxycodone and hydrocodone are semi-synthetic opioids, they are very similar to codeine. They are all categorized under the SAME chemical class of opioids called phenanthrenes. Doctors give trusted, helpful answers on causes, diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, and more: Dr. Glover on codeine allergy alternatives: Cetirizine is also marketed with pseudoefedrine, which can be a stimulant in some people. Avoid zyrtec-d. Generally, allergy to one opioid agent does not mean the patient is allergic to other opioids; also switching to an agent in another opioid drug class may be effective. The following provides an overview of what codeine is, and also what to know about a codeine allergy reaction, symptoms, and alternative options that may be available. What is Codeine? Codeine is a prescription opioid, that as was touched one above, is given to patients to treat pain as well as a cough. This article briefly discusses the true opioid allergy versus pseudoallergy, opioid side effects, and alternative options to control pain. Allergy Symptoms All opioids, particularly the naturally occurring and semisynthetic compounds, cause allergic reactions. Codeine is an opiate used to treat pain, as a cough medicine, and for diarrhea. It is typically used to treat mild to moderate degrees of pain. Greater benefit may occur when combined with paracetamol (acetaminophen) or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Evidence does not support its use for acute cough suppression in children or adults. In Europe it is. How many times have you had a patient with an allergy to codeine described as stomach upset? Or how about a rash with morphine (probably secondary to histamine release)?.