Codeine is an alkaloid of opiate group. Codeine is an analgesic derived from morphine, however its anaesthetizing effect is less toxic and not so strong comparing to morphine. Codeine has sedative effect. Codeine is successfully used as an antitussive medication.

It has less negative effect on respiratory tract comparing to morphine. In a combination with non-narcotic analgesic caffeine, phenobarbital, it is used in headaches, and neuralgia. This drug is a component of Bekhterev’s mixture.