Codeine for child pain: new preparation. Helpful in some cases.

(1) This codeine-based syrup is indicated for the treatment of pain in children. It is the first step 2 analgesic (WHO classification) to become available in France for oral treatment of children. (2) Efficacy and the optimal dose regimen are based mainly on lengthy experience with codeine in other countries. Only a few small trials on acute pain are available. (3) The safety profile is that of all opiates: adverse effects comprise mainly constipation, nausea and vomiting. (4) Accidental ingestion by a young child can lead to severe poisoning.