When you were a child, was codeine kept in your medicine cabinet?
Codeine was once frequently used to treat coughs, but recent studies show that codeine is no more effective than placebo in suppressing cough. This is why it has been dubbed the “ineffective gold standard.”
However, opioid analgesics like codeine are still some of the most widely prescribed medications in the United States. In Maricopa and Yavapai Counties in Arizona, over 240,000 opioid prescriptions have been written thus far in 2024. Despite their risks, opioids are routinely used to treat pain.
If you or a loved one was prescribed codeine to treat pain following an injury or illness, it’s important to be aware of the potential for dependence. Codeine is derived from morphine, and like other opioids, it’s possible to become physically and psychologically dependent on it. Let’s learn more about the signs of codeine addiction and the treatment options available.
Understanding Codeine Addiction
Codeine is a commonly prescribed opioid used to treat mild to moderate pain, suppress coughs, and alleviate discomfort. Despite its therapeutic uses, codeine carries the potential for misuse, as it can produce a feeling of pleasure and a relaxing “high.” It does this by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, reducing pain sensations and creating a euphoric feeling.
While engaging in prolonged or recreational use is the most likely cause of dependence, this can still happen if you take the medication as prescribed. Recognizing the signs of codeine addiction can prevent further risks and encourage you to seek professional help.
Signs You May Be Battling a Codeine Addiction
There are various indications that you or a loved one could be experiencing codeine dependence. If you notice any of them, it’s important to take action. You can do this by talking to your healthcare provider, joining a support group like Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or reaching out to loved ones. However, the most effective treatment is typically a structured residential or intensive outpatient program that offers evidence-based and holistic therapies. Below are the main signs that you may be dealing with codeine dependence.
Physical Signs of Codeine Dependence
Codeine is a central nervous system depressant, leading to persistent drowsiness and fatigue. Those who misuse codeine may appear lethargic, often falling asleep during the day or struggling to stay alert. They may also have constricted pupils, gastrointestinal distress, dry mouth, and slurred speech. Codeine also causes the respiratory system to slow down, which can result in shallow, labored breathing, and in extreme cases, respiratory arrest.
Psychological Signs of Codeine Dependence
Cravings are a hallmark of opioid use disorders. Individuals may experience overwhelming urges to use codeine, preoccupying their thoughts and interfering with daily tasks. These cravings can drive risky behaviors, such as seeking multiple prescriptions or obtaining codeine illegally. Other psychological signs to be aware of include mood swings and irritability, anxiety and depression, cognitive impairment, loss of interest in activities, and emotional detachment.
Behavioral Signs of Codeine Dependence
Codeine use doesn’t just affect the mind and body—it also causes noticeable changes in behavior. Doctor shopping, for instance, involves visiting multiple doctors or clinics to obtain several prescriptions. People may do this to ensure they don’t run out of the substance. They may also take higher doses or more frequent doses than prescribed. Secretive behavior, social withdrawal, risky behavior, poor judgment, and financial issues are other behavioral signs to watch for.
Health Effects and Risks of Codeine Addiction
Some people believe that codeine is safe because it can be legally obtained from a doctor. However, prolonged or excessive use can result in significant health risks, such as:
- Liver damage: Many codeine-based products contain acetaminophen, which can cause severe liver damage when misused.
- Respiratory issues: Chronic use of opioids can lead to respiratory depression and long-term breathing problems.
- Weakened immune system: Prolonged use impairs the body’s ability to fight off infections, leading to frequent illnesses.
- Hormonal imbalances: Codeine dependence can interfere with hormone production, causing decreased libido, irregular menstrual cycles, and sexual dysfunction.
- Weight loss and malnutrition: Appetite suppression and digestive issues can result in unintentional weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
- Chronic constipation: Persistent opioid use leads to constipation and can contribute to painful gastrointestinal conditions, such as bowel obstructions.
- Mental health: Codeine use has a profound impact on well-being, disrupting brain chemistry and raising the risk for mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.
- Overdose: One of the most concerning risks of codeine misuse is overdose, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms include unconsciousness, slow breathing, cold or clammy skin, bluish lips or fingernails, and weak pulse.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Codeine Dependence
Attempting to quit codeine after prolonged use can trigger withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms arise as the body struggles to adjust to the absence of codeine. These symptoms can make it very difficult to quit, especially without professional support. The good news is that you don’t have to go through a long and grueling withdrawal process when you have the right support by your side.
A medical detox program provides medications and therapies, along with round-the-clock monitoring, to ensure your symptoms are managed and you are kept comfortable. This makes it easier to focus on your recovery and prevent return to use in the first few days or weeks. The main withdrawal symptoms include:
- Muscle aches and joint pains
- Sweating and chills
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Anxiety and depression
- Irritability and mood swings
- Intense cravings
- Runny nose and watery eyes
- Yawning and fatigue
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
These symptoms typically appear within 6 to 12 hours from the last dose, with symptoms peaking between 1 and 3 days. After this, most physical symptoms start to subside, though it’s possible for some symptoms to linger, such as insomnia and cravings. This is why continued support is so important.
Codeine Addiction Treatment in Prescott, AZ
Overcoming codeine dependence requires a combination of approaches, such as medical support, behavioral therapy, and ongoing care. With the right treatment plan, you can safely withdraw from codeine, address the root causes of your codeine use, and maintain long-term recovery.
The recovery process starts with detox, which will help you safely withdraw from codeine by monitoring your withdrawal symptoms, administering medications like buprenorphine or methadone, and providing supportive care like hydration and nutrition. Rehab for codeine addiction also involves medication-assisted therapy (MAT), individual and group therapy sessions, distance from triggers and stressful situations, behavioral counseling, and support groups and peer support.
To prevent return to use, it’s important to develop a relapse prevention plan. Strategies may include identifying triggers, building a support network, creating a healthy routine, and using coping tools like journaling or mindfulness practices. Ongoing support can also help manage any lingering withdrawal symptoms, which can make it difficult to stay on track with your recovery goals.
Wolf Creek Recovery provides intensive outpatient and residential treatment services for substance use disorders. We have staff in recovery, and they are able to offer a level of support that ensures our clients feel heard and understood. While recovery is hard work, we also make time for fun by engaging in sports like basketball, disc golf, and pickleball, as well as other outdoor activities like hiking. Build a life you love. Contact us today at 833-732-8202 to learn more.
FAQs About Signs of Codeine Misuse
What are some of the signs of codeine dependence?
Codeine dependence involves physical and psychological signs, such as persistent drowsiness, constricted pupils, stomach problems, slowed breathing, intense cravings, mood swings, irritability, and cognitive impairment.
What are the most common codeine withdrawal symptoms?
If you have a physical dependence on codeine and stop or reduce your dose, you may experience withdrawal symptoms like muscle aches and pains, sweating and chills, yawning and fatigue, insomnia, stomach problems, intense cravings, and runny nose and watery eyes.
How is a codeine addiction treated?
Treatment is available for those who are dependent on codeine. It involves a combination of medications, individual and group therapy, support groups, relapse prevention, and coping strategies.
