To: vocalist
Date sent: Tue, 11 Jan 2000 09:32:00 -0500 (EST)
From: "Sharon Mech"
Send reply to: VOCALIST <vocalist>

Naomi asked about codeine.


Coughing CAN serve a purpose. (to expel guck) As we all know, though,
it can get pretty ugly & out of control. If over-the-counter cough
suppressants work for you, thank your lucky stars, go to the store &
get the cheapest knockoff with the same ingredients (and same proportions)
as the overpriced brand name, go home & enjoy.

Myself, I might as well drink Kool-Aid. When I get a cold, and it turns to
bronchitis, I develop what my doc refers to as "irritable" airways, where
dry air, post nasal drip or the full moon will set off a cough that won't
quit. 's far as I'm concerned, THAT'S what codeine is for. My doc sez
(docs, pharmacists, is this straight dope??) that codeine works in such a way
as to stop or dull the actual impulse to cough. I use it now & then when
things get Very Bad - half a dose before I go to bed doesn't so much put
me to sleep as it breaks the cycle of the cough & lets me and my poor
abused throat get some rest. (If I take a full dose, I'd better be prepared
to sleep 'til noon.)

Codeine IS a narcotic. If you abuse, it, yes, bad things can happen. If you
use it judiciously, it can help when nothing else will.

BTW - I'm such a junkie - my last 100ml bottle of Codiclear (a can of pop
holds 355 ml) lasted over a year.



Cheers,


Sharon Mech
Cantor, mezzo & sinner
sharon-at-cmhc.com