Codeine Addiction Guide

Codeine is a prescription narcotic that also works as a cough suppressant and induces sleep. Codeine, which is derived from morphine, is comparable to other opioid medicines like Vicodin and Percocet. Codeine has a strong potential for addiction and habit formation, just like these other substances. Understanding codeine addiction is the first step toward helping a loved one or reaching out for help. 

If you or a loved one could benefit from 12 Steps to Recovery, contact Myrtle Beach Recovery to learn about our comfortable residential setting.

Understanding Codeine Addiction

In the brain, codeine binds to opiate receptors to inhibit pain perception and provide euphoria in the user. Additionally, the medication results in sleepiness and decreased respiration making it harmful if combined with alcohol. Due to the drug’s addictive properties, patients are often only administered it for brief periods of time only.

Codeine may merely be one addiction among many for some people. It can serve as a starting point for addiction to other drugs, particularly other opiates like Oxycodone or Morphine. It’s crucial to be open and honest when discussing all of your addictions with a treatment counselor because having several drugs in a user’s system might alter how therapy is delivered. 

Codeine Abuse 

Opioids are currently the substance that are abused the most frequently worldwide.  In addition to reducing pain, codeine can produce a pleasant euphoric feeling at larger doses.

Codeine Abuse Symptoms

  • Apathy
  • Dilated pupils
  • Faulty judgment
  • Ineffective coordination
  • Limited ability to focus
  • Drowsiness
  • Unsteady speech

Codeine Abuse Statistics

Studies on codeine abuse have been performed over the years. Below are some of the determined statistics. 

  • 33 million people are thought to take codeine annually.
  • When someone stops using codeine, withdrawal symptoms are usually at their worst.
  • Between 1999 and 2019, around 500,000 Americans died after overdosing on opioids like codeine.

Codeine Withdrawal 

The three active stages of codeine withdrawal are as follows: In as little as four hours after the last dose, the first phase will begin. An individual going through this initial stage of withdrawal frequently has flu-like symptoms and mild anxiety. More distressing and painful symptoms, such as depression and stomach discomfort, appear during the second phase, which begins some time between the first 24 hours and three days following the final dose. 

The first week will see the symptoms at their worst. After the last dose, the third phase can linger for months or last a week. The two main persistent withdrawal symptoms are depression and drug cravings. Below are common symptoms someone may experience during this time:

  • Extreme yawning
  • Insomnia
  • Twitching of the extremities’ muscles
  • Pains and aches
  • Anxiety or depression
  • A blocked nose
  • Diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain
  • Irritation and agitation
  • Quick heartbeat
  • Elevated blood pressure
  • Tearfulness
  • Strong urges to use
  • Chills, fever, and perspiration

Get Help Today with Myrtle Beach Recovery 

If you or a loved one are struggling with codeine addiction, let Myrtle Beach Recovery help you with our 12-step immersion program. Our experienced staff will help you work through the steps to help you regain control of your life.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you on your journey to sobriety.

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