Acetaminophen codeine is basically a combination of generic Tylenol and a pain relief narcotic. Doctors will prescribe the medication for severe to moderate pain. For example, if a patient has surgery, the doctor may write a script for this medication, to control the discomfort at home. However, people who drink a lot or already have liver disease should not take this drug. In addition, some patients are allergic to codeine, so it might also be a bad pain relief choice. If the doctor does give you this medicine, be careful and only take it as directed. It can be very addictive, if abused.