The Food and Drug Administration is warning healthcare professionals and patients of a potential danger associated with providing codeine to children in the wake of a tonsillectomy or adenoid removal. Some kids might have livers that can turn codeine into morphine in doses that are larger than what would be considered safe. Three fatalities have recently come to the FDA’s attention. The organization is advising doctors and caregivers to only provide codeine when severe pain presents itself as opposed to on a regular schedule. If intense sleepiness or difficulty breathing occur, then 911 should be dialed or the kid should be brought into an emergency room.
For more about the risks, follow this link.