If you have ever had a cough or experienced chronic pain, you have probably heard of codeine. Codeine is a type of medication that is used to treat pain. It is also commonly found in cough syrup. [1] Though it is milder than other drugs in its class, codeine is an opiate. To some degree, all opiates, such as heroin and morphine, relieve pain, and can produce feelings of euphoria. Even though codeine is not as potent as morphine, consuming more than prescribed or for prolonged periods of time can still lead to addiction and overdose. If you or a loved one is suffering from codeine addiction, continue reading to learn more about this drug as well as codeine addiction treatment options in California.
The Truth About Codeine Addiction
In recent years, the rate of opioid addiction has increased significantly. While codeine may seem harmless since it is less potent and prescribed often, it should not be taken any less seriously as an opiate. Codeine can produce the same effects as other opiates and its users often build a tolerance to it quite quickly. This can lead to codeine users taking more than prescribed and seeking other opiates for pain relief. In fact, 94% of respondents in a survey of people in treatment for heroin addiction say they turned to heroin after their prescription opiates became too expensive and difficult to obtain. [2]
Codeine is also frequently mixed with other drugs and alcohol, making it particularly dangerous. Opiates depress the central nervous system, which is part of what makes them so dangerous. [3] When mixed with other substances that depress the central nervous system, an overdose becomes even more likely. A study in Australia found that 83% of deaths from Codeine overdose included mixed drug toxicity. [4]
Furthermore, it is becoming increasingly popular among artists and musicians to glorify mixing codeine with soft drinks and alcohol to get high. The drink is commonly called ‘lean’ because of its effect on the body. The drink causes users to go into a sedated state and produces a feeling of euphoria. It can also dizziness, nausea, hallucinations, seizures, overdose, and death.[5] In fact, several artists have spoken publicly about their health issues caused by codeine use. Rapper, Lil Wayne was even hospitalized after having seizures related to overdosing on codeine
What Are the Signs You Need Codeine Addiction Treatment?
If you suspect a loved one may have an addiction to codeine, below are some signs of codeine addiction to look for:
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Moodswings
- Itching
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
Many people who abuse codeine believe that they can quit using on their own and without support. But the truth is, that codeine, like any other opiate, is highly addictive and can cause uncomfortable and dangerous symptoms of withdrawal. For those reasons, it is important to rely on the help and support of an experienced codeine addiction treatment center to help you overcome your addiction.
How Should Addiction to Codeine Be Treated?
1. Medical Detox for Codeine
Since withdrawal from opiates is deeply uncomfortable and sometimes even dangerous, it is vital to detox in a medical facility. A professional team will be able to monitor you around the clock and keep you as comfortable as possible
2. Codeine Rehabilitation
Once your body has been rid of the drug, you will have a clear mind and be ready to take on sobriety. With the help of your care team, you will learn how to avoid relapse and live a long, sober life.
Get Help for Codeine Addiction Today
If you are ready to kick your addiction to codeine once and for all, Ocean Hills Recovery can help. Our codeine addiction treatment center in California has everything you need to safely detox and finally recover from your codeine addiction. Contact us today to get started.
Sources:
[1] https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/d03357a1
[2] https://www.asam.org/docs/default-source/advocacy/opioid-addiction-disease-facts-figures.pdf
[3] https://www.asam.org/docs/default-source/advocacy/opioid-addiction-disease-facts-figures.pdf
[4] https://www.nps.org.au/news/codeine-related-deaths-a-cause-for-concern
[5] https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-lean#short-term-effects
About the author:
Nicole earned her doctoral degree in Psychology with an emphasis on marriage and family therapy at California School of Professional Psychology. Her doctoral thesis was a grounded theory study exploring the role of alienation and connectedness in the life course of addiction. She specializes in treating addiction and trauma. She is certified in DBT and EMDR, two of the most highly regarded evidence-based methods in psychotherapy. Dr. Doss is a strong LGBT advocate and provides open and affirming support to her LGBT clients.
Dr. Doss’s earlier education included graduating cum laude from the University of California, Irvine in June of 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. While there, she received honors recognition by Psi Chi and Golden Key honor societies.
Nicole has been working with alcoholics and addicts in our California drug and alcohol rehab center as an advisor and counselor for many years. She is passionate about providing quality counseling and care to her clients. Her main focus is on integrating the 12 Step and disease models of addiction with experiential therapeutic theory. She is married to Greg; they have two adorable sons together and an energetic yellow Labrador Retriever.
