What is codeine? Codeine is an opioid medication that is in a variety of medications, from over-the-counter pain relievers to pharmaceutical-grade prescription drugs. While most people think of it as the main ingredient in cough syrup, it is actually a multi-purpose drug that can impact behavior and lead to drug abuse quickly. Leading to the need of a codeine detox center in Florida.
Since codeine is an opiate it has a lot of ramifications when used recreationally by individuals with addictive personalities. Even over-the-counter codeine products can lead to substance dependency and cause individuals to seek out higher-grade drugs.
If you believe that a loved one has been experimenting with codeine, and poses the potential risk of substance abuse, then you’ll want to review your options for treatment. But it also helps to build a general understanding of it and the different types of medications that contain codeine. This knowledge may help to spot new risks and patterns in a loved that is struggling with addiction.
What is Codeine and Why is it Likely to be Abused?
Codeine is used in over-the-counter medications including cough syrups, aspirins, and pain relievers to change the way the brain responds to pain. For example, when you take aspirin your pain gradually lowers since the drug is initiating changes in the brain.
Pharmacy store medications contain a very limited dose and have a low risk of drug dependency when used properly. However, frequent and dependent use of these medications may lead to addiction, especially when mixed with other drugs or opiates.
Codeine is also prescribed to relieve moderate pain the in form of several prescription drugs. As with any prescription, codeine is a safe pain reliever when used as instructed by your doctor. However, prescription-grade codeine can cause addiction and dependency if consumed recreationally. Per the U.S National Library of Medicine:
“Codeine may be habit forming. Take codeine exactly as directed. Do not take more of it, take it more often, or take it in a different way than directed by your doctor. While taking codeine, discuss with your healthcare provider your pain treatment goals, length of treatment, and other ways to manage your pain. Tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family drinks or has ever drunk large amounts of alcohol, uses or has ever used street drugs, or has overused prescription medications, or if you have or have ever had depression or another mental illness. There is a greater risk that you will overuse codeine if you have or have ever had any of these conditions.”
What Are Some of the Main Risks and Withdrawal Symptoms?
Codeine dependence can cause intense withdrawal symptoms for addicts that rely on the drug. These withdrawal symptoms include:
- Loss of libido and sexual desire
- Irregular heartbeat
- Breathing difficulty
- Rashes and skin irritation
- Agitation, hallucination, and mood swings
- Nausea and diarrhea
Additionally, codeine can lead to an overdose in patients and cause symptoms including excessive drowsiness, breathing loss, collapse, and seizure. Without proper clinical intervention, addicts are likely to suffer significant withdrawals in the form of waning physical and mental health.
Where Can I Find a Nearby Codeine Detox Center?
If you’re looking for a codeine detox center in Florida, then you may want to consider Serenity House Detox & Recovery at either our Fort Lauderdale or Jupiter location. Our clinical and behavioral intervention team provides you or your loved personalized treatment options for your addiction.
Not all levels of addiction and mental health needs are the same for codeine addicts. At Serenity House, we understand that everyone requires a unique treatment plan. To begin your recovery and learn what is codeine, please visit either of our locations or call us at 866.294.5306.
