noun
- Plural of codein; a naturally occurring alkaloid derived from opium or synthesized, used as a mild painkiller and cough suppressant in pharmaceutical preparations.
Usage: Medical/pharmaceutical term; Often used in the singular form 'codeine' in modern usage; 'codeins' is an older or less common plural variant
Examples
- The pharmacist explained that codeins are commonly found in over-the-counter cough syrups.
- Different formulations of codeins are available depending on the severity of pain.
- Codeins work by reducing the activity of the cough center in the brain.
- The doctor prescribed a medication containing codeins for the patient's persistent cough.