Codeine Abuse

Codeine is thought to be one of the most commonly used opiate pain relievers the world over, which also makes it one of the most commonly abused drugs in the world as well. Codeine is frequently prescribed by health care professionals to treat persistent cough, diarrhea and varying degrees of pain. Unfortunately, codeine can easily be abused, and with consistent use, can build into an opiate addiction after only a few weeks, even when used within the parameters of the prescription.

What is Codeine?

Codeine is derived naturally from opium. Its action in the brain is such that-like all opioid-based drugs-codeine changes the way the brain perceives pain in the body or transmits the experience of that pain. It also produces a high or sense of euphoria in those not accustomed to the drug, a feeling that many come to crave, continuing to raise their dose in an effort to experience it.

What is Codeine Abuse?

Codeine abuse happens when an individual increases their prescribed dose without a doctor's consent, takes the drug more often than recommended or combines it with other substances to increase its potency. Using codeine while drinking alcohol or using it along with other drugs like benzodiazepines, is just one example. Generally, if codeine no longer relieves your pain or if you no longer need pain relief but continue to use the drug in order to get high, this is codeine abuse.

What are the Signs of Codeine Abuse?

Many people may not be aware that their use of codeine has actually become abusive, but there are a number of signals that can tip you off to codeine addiction and abuse. One sign is the need to have a constant supply on hand, a preoccupation with the drug even when your next dose isn't for hours. Going to different doctors to acquire supplemental codeine prescriptions is a sure sign of abuse. Lying to family and friends about the amount of your codeine dose drug or the frequency of doses is another signal that codeine abuse is in effect.

What Are The Effects of Codeine Abuse?

Codeine abuse may result in many different kinds of illnesses and, with chronic use, could eventually damage vital organs. Since the addictive nature of codeine is high, one effect of abuse is a number of physical withdrawal symptoms if the user tries to stop taking the drug. Codeine withdrawal symptoms can sometimes last many weeks and are very uncomfortable and even painful.

Is There A Treatment for Codeine Abuse?

Today, there are many options that are available to treat codeine abuse. In 2002, the FDA allowed a new drug called buprenorphine to be used in the treatment of opiate abuse on an outpatient basis. This is a unique characteristic of buprenorphine addiction treatments because no other opioid addiction treatment is available outside of a clinic or drug treatment center. Studies show that when buprenorphine is used in opiate addiction treatment, withdrawal symptoms are lessened and sometimes non-existent and the length of detox is significantly shorter than with any other option.

How Meditox Treats Codeine Abuse

Meditox offers a complete codeine treatment program in many locations throughout the United States. Our doctors are equipped with the knowledge and required certification to dispense prescriptions to their patients for buprenorphine in the forms of Subutex and Suboxone. Our detoxification treatment has been developed to help individuals succeed in their quest to stop abusing codeine and other opiates and can be initiated in only one appointment at any of our convenient locations. As a patient, you will be also provided with referrals to local agencies and 24-hour telephone support to further strengthen your recovery. If you are ready to end your codeine abuse or would like to learn more, call Meditox today for your confidential evaluation.

If you feel that Meditox might be the right solution for you or your loved one, please call us for a toll-free and private consultation:

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“Today is week #5! I have my life back, this morning my husband told me he hadn't seen me like this in three years! My daughter told me "your back Mom"! My Fybromyalgia is down to 2 to 3 percent of what it was, I am fully able to live with the Joy and Love and Laughter which has always been my way.”

Mother, Real Estate Agent, 49
August 11, 2006

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