Codeine is a type of opioid medication that helps ease mild to moderate pain and can also help with coughing. It works by interacting with the brain and central nervous system, altering how we feel pain and reducing the urge to cough. Often, it’s mixed with other medications like acetaminophen or aspirin to boost its effectiveness. While codeine can be quite helpful, it does come with some potential side effects, including drowsiness, constipation, and even respiratory issues.