APA Dictionary of Psychology

n. a mild to moderately potent orally administered opioid analgesic used in the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. It is more effective when combined with acetaminophen or an NSAID (e.g., aspirin) and is generally marketed in combination with such agents. It is also often marketed in combination with a cough suppressant for the symptomatic relief of cough due to colds or nasal congestion. U.S. trade names (among others): Detussin (in combination with pseudoephedrine); Vicodin (in combination with acetaminophen).