Cocaine
Codeine, a commonly prescribed painkiller, is easily accessible. Addiction is a disorder of the brain’s reward system where individuals feel compelled to engage in rewarding behaviours, such as taking codeine, despite being aware of the negative consequences. Repeated exposure to addictive substances leads to changes in certain brain chemicals, such as dopamine, which drives individuals to continually seek the positive feelings associated with higher chemical levels, deepening the addiction to avoid negative emotions. Codeine can be addictive due to its ability to produce pleasure and a relaxing ‘high,’ which individuals feel compelled to experience again. Furthermore, codeine is physically addictive, often leading long-term users to continue taking it to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Codeine is an opioid-derived drug used for treating mild to moderate pain, but it unfortunately has a high potential for addiction and can lead to prescription drug addiction and other forms of substance abuse. If you’re ready to take the first step towards recovery, our treatment advisors are available to provide the guidance and support you need to overcome addiction. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)
Codeine Addiction
Identifying a codeine addiction can be challenging due to individuals’ efforts to conceal their condition, often driven by the stigma attached to drug abuse and addiction. However, there are several physical and behavioural symptoms that may indicate a codeine addiction, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, a bluish discolouration of the lips and fingernails, muscle twitches, dizziness, dry mouth, itching, difficulty urinating, low blood pressure, seizures, slowed breathing, clammy hands and feet, stomach pain, and changes in vision. There are no strict guidelines for the causes of codeine addiction. While some individuals may have initially been prescribed codeine by a doctor to manage pain, they may develop a tolerance to the drug over time. As their tolerance increases, the prescribed dose may become ineffective, leading to prescription medication abuse and potentially resulting in codeine addiction. Despite similar circumstances, one person may develop an addiction while another does not. Several factors, such as environment, psychology, genetics, and brain chemistry, have been identified as potential contributors to codeine addiction. Additionally, there is ongoing debate about whether trauma can trigger addiction. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)
Codeine abuse
It’s important to understand that codeine abuse, as well as drug abuse in general, differs from codeine addiction. Addiction to codeine entails a strong compulsion to use the drug, regardless of the potential consequences, while drug abuse often serves as the initial stage towards addiction. Codeine abuse can significantly impede an individual’s ability to fulfill their regular responsibilities both at work and at home. Furthermore, it may lead to uncharacteristic behavior and the development of physical side effects. Codeine addiction emerges when an individual develops a tolerance to the drug, requiring larger doses to achieve the same effects, and experiences withdrawal symptoms when not using codeine. Additionally, addiction involves continued use of codeine despite being aware of its harmful effects. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)
Painkiller
Codeine is a painkiller that is derived from Morphine, and it is commonly used to alleviate mild to moderate levels of pain. In addition to its pain-relieving properties, Codeine is also utilised as a cough medicine and for the treatment of diarrhoea. Codeine is available in three main forms: tablets in varying strengths (15mg, 30mg, or 60mg), a liquid for oral consumption containing 25mg of codeine per 5ml dose or 15mg per 5ml dose in cough syrup, and an injectable form primarily administered in hospital settings. While Codeine can be obtained by prescription, lower doses are purchasable at pharmacies, often combined with other painkillers like paracetamol (co-codamol), ibuprofen, or aspirin. As an opiate derived from morphine, Codeine, like all opioids, has the potential for addiction and can lead to prescription drug dependence.
Detoxing from Codeine
Due to its addictive nature, detoxing from Codeine at home can be challenging, thus residential rehabilitation is often recommended due to the level of support required. The addictive nature of Codeine stems from its ability to bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in not only pain relief but also feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Individuals may develop a strong psychological dependency on Codeine, using it to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotional distress, even if they are not physically dependent on the drug. If you are concerned about Codeine Addiction and seek information on available treatments, feel free to contact our Treatment Advisors for a complimentary assessment. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)