What is codeine primarily used for in small doses?

Codeine is primarily utilized in small doses as a cough suppressant. It works on the brain's cough center to reduce the urge to cough, making it particularly useful in managing coughs associated with various respiratory conditions.

In the context of its analgesic properties, while codeine can provide pain relief, its primary designation in smaller dosages is specifically for cough suppression. This highlights its role in certain formulations, such as cough syrups, where it's included to alleviate symptoms of a cough rather than to treat pain or inflammation directly.

Additionally, while it does have some ability to relieve pain and can be involved in treating symptoms associated with inflammation and fever, these are not its primary use at lower dosages. Thus, the focus on cough suppression reflects its intended use in clinical practice when administered in these amounts.