Codeine is an opioid that is combined with other medications for use as a painkiller, cough suppressant, and can also be found in some migraine medications. Like a lot of prescription drugs, the use of codeine can start as a legitimate medication that can quickly spiral into an addiction. Due to it being an opioid, the user can quickly develop a physical dependence.
Codeine
SIGNS OF CODEINE ADDICTION
Potential warning signs of codeine addiction can include a variety of mood, behavioral, psychological, and physical changes.
- depression/anxiety (drastic mood changes)
- sleeping all the time
- lack of appetite
- Increased visits to the hospital to get a prescription (“doctor shopping”)
- lack of self care/personal hygiene
- hallucination
- memory loss
- delusions
- blue tinted fingernails/lips
- muscle twitches
- rashes
- dizziness
Codeine, although not as potent as its counterparts, still poses a risk for dangerous side effects that come with abuse and long-term use. Addicts may suffer from permanent brain damage due to the repeated drop in oxygen getting to the brain. Some addicts may also experience a dangerous reduction in blood pressure and heart rate.
WITHDRAWAL AND DETOX
Each person will go through detoxification and withdrawal differently. Withdrawal symptoms that may occur after stopping the use of codeine include:
- headaches
- insomnia
- fever
- nausea and vomiting
- sweating
- dehydration
- depression
Several factors can influence the withdrawal symptoms a person might experience including the length of time the drug was taken, the quantity, and the frequency. Generally, a system is clear within 16 hours.
TREATMENT
Typically the biggest obstacle for addicts is themselves. For treatment to be successful, the individual must understand that the addiction is real and have a desire to be sober. Without those two combined elements, the odds of successful treatment are minimal and the risk of relapse is high.
Regardless of how the addiction occurred, addicts should seek treatment as soon as possible. Although inpatient care is highly recommended, outpatient care is also beneficial.. Profound offers a multitude of treatments from detox and Inpatient Rehab, to specialized Professionals and LGBTQ+ Programs. Ongoing therapy helps recovering addicts. If the person has other medical conditions, either occurring before the addiction or as a result, outpatient care can also treat these conditions.
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