Why codeine itch

New data that was published in the Natural Chemical Biology journal suggests that some opioids can trigger an immune system response that affects one of the major receptor proteins on mast cell surfaces. Mast cells are an important part of the immune system, and they respond to certain inflammatory agents — like histamine — causing what appears to be an allergic reaction. While it is still not well understood why some opiate narcotics lead to intense itching, it is known that some people have a more intense physical reaction than others.

If you have been prescribed an opiate painkiller like codeine or morphine and you experience intense itching after taking the medication, it is a good idea to contact your healthcare provider immediately. There are many safe alternatives when it comes to the effective treatment of moderate or severe pain.

In some cases, an individual will continue to take an opiate medication despite the presence of uncomfortable physical side effects like itchy skin. If this is the case, it might be because an opioid abuse disorder is present. If you believe that you or someone you love has been struggling with an opiate abuse disorder, there are several telltale symptoms to keep an eye out for, including:. Dec 12, Teach Me.

Are You Taking a New Medication? Is It an Internal Condition? Typically, itchy skin should clear up in just a few weeks. Allergy and Immunology Dermatology. September 22, Think You Have a Penicillin Allergy? Maybe Not, According to an Expert. See Subscription Options. Discover World-Changing Science.

This article was published in print as "Defeating Pain without the Itch. Get smart. Sign up for our email newsletter. Sign Up. Opioid-induced itching while suppressing pain sensation has been one of the mysteries for a long, long time. We found that this isoform is specifically required for relaying morphine-induced itch. Very interestingly and unexpectedly, we found that this isoform is not involved in morphine analgesia.

So this, actually, is the first evidence to show that a morphine isoform has nothing to do with morphine analgesia.