You should always take narcotic pain killers with food. Otherwise, you will be barfing for a while, especially if you are not used to them. if you take them on an empty stomach, they might hit you stronger and if that is the case, you shouldn't work or drive in that condition. If you are looking to get a buzz from them, then don't eat. Not recommended though. You will puke.

I agree with snakelover about not recommending taking the pills on an empty stomach and I would like to add that eating grains and starches (i.e. bread) is a good idea to eat when taking the pills because it will help absorb whatever medicine your body does not digest and you won't get as nausceous as a result. Your body will only absorb what it needs and it's the excess drug that will make you ill.

Take codeine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Never take more of this medication than is prescribed for you. Too much codeine could be very harmful. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take codeine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. Do not stop taking codeine suddenly if you have been taking it continuously for more than 5 to 7 days. Stopping suddenly could cause withdrawal symptoms and make you feel uncomfortable. Your doctor may want to gradually reduce your dose. Codeine will cause constipation. Increase the amount of fiber and water (six to eight full glasses a day) in your diet to prevent constipation. Do not share this medication with anyone else. --------- Note: Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease; liver disease; asthma; urinary retention; an enlarged prostate; hypothyroidism; seizures or epilepsy; gallbladder disease; a head injury; or Addison's disease. You may not be able to take codeine, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above. Codeine may cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms as well as other harmful effects in an unborn baby. Do not take codeine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Codeine may also cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms in a nursing baby. Do not take codeine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are younger than 18 years of age or older than 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from codeine therapy. Use extra caution. ---- Just for FYI: Codeine side effects If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking codeine and seek emergency medical attention: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); slow, weak breathing; seizures; cold, clammy skin; severe weakness or dizziness; or unconsciousness. Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take codeine and talk to your doctor if you experience constipation; dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite; dizziness, tiredness, or lightheadedness; muscle twitches; sweating; itching; decreased urination; or decreased sex drive. Codeine is habit forming. Do not stop taking it suddenly. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.