A client with lung cancer has developed an intractable, nonproductive cough that is unrelieved by nonopioid antitussive agents. The physician prescribes codeine, 10 mg by mouth every 4 hours. When discussing this medication with a nursing colleague, which statement that accurately describes codeine will the nurse include?
A. It's a centrally-acting antitussive and can cause dependence.
B. It's a peripherally-acting antitussive and can cause dependence.
C. It's a peripherally-acting antitussive and doesn't cause dependence.
D. It's a centrally-acting antitussive and doesn't cause dependence.
Answer:
A. It's a centrally-acting antitussive and can cause dependence.
Explanation:
Research has shown that codeine reduces the cough reflex, such that it affects the cough's sensitivity which is located at the middle of medulla, to the arrival of stimuli; sensitive to both mechanical and chemical stimuli. Also, because Codeine is considered to be an opoid or opiate which is used in treating pain, cough and diarrhea, it can cause dependence in the patient.
