Codeine is an opiate. It’s also an ingredient in various common medications, such as cough syrups. However, as an opiate, codeine can be habit-forming if abused. The chance of individuals abusing codeine has increased over the years due to the prescription opioid epidemic. Many individuals who have inadvertently become dependent upon opioids have used codeine to meet their dependency needs.

Therefore, it’s necessary to educate yourself about the effects of codeine abuse. Doing so will put you in a stronger position to find the appropriate addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one. Santé Center offers numerous therapeutic services if you’re looking for substance abuse treatment near me to help those struggling with codeine addiction heal and overcome substance use.

Who Abuses Codeine?

Codeine abuse is more widespread than you might think. Rap culture has glorified it as an ingredient in “Purple Drank” since the 1980s. High schoolers and club cooks use it to make “Sizzurp,” a mix of cough syrup and soda. However, these are extreme examples. Most individuals who abuse codeine get it via prescription, either illicitly or through loved ones.

Effects of Codeine Abuse

The immediate effects of codeine abuse include a gradual onset of euphoria. You feel good. A hefty dose of the drug affects a dopamine glut in the brain. You’ll also feel a little drunk.

Some people have what they describe as an out-of-body experience. They feel like they’re outside their bodies and watch themselves. Depending on your drug history, this can turn into a bad trip. You may suffer a panic attack.

There isn’t precise dosing. The high could be euphoric or turn dangerous, depending on your body chemistry, drug use history, and current medications. And because codeine comes in combination with acetaminophen, there is a real risk of liver failure. There are also other side effects. These include:

Severe constipation
Rash
Dry mouth
Oral health problems
Confusion
Low blood pressure
Depression
Hallucinations
Slowed breathing
Coma
Death (in rare cases)

These effects should serve as a warning. If you or a loved one are using codeine, finding help immediately is essential. The results of codeine abuse can be long-term if it is not addressed.

Dangers of Codeine Abuse

As with other opiates, it’s possible to develop a codeine addiction. Your body builds up a tolerance to the drug. You then increase the intake, which results in continuous artificial stimulation of the dopamine release. This process reinforces use, which creates a powerful psychological dependency.

Some signs of dependency include:

Needing more codeine to feel the same effects
Feeling unable to stop using codeine
Seeing others use codeine and wanting to do the same
Making excuses for why you need more codeine

The effects of codeine abuse can be severe. At Santé Center, we use evidence-based approaches to treatment. This includes a variety of therapeutic services that are designed to help individuals affected by codeine abuse. Our team of experts provides inpatient and residential care for those in need.

Codeine Abuse Treatment

Getting treatment is possible in a rehab facility. You’ll get the best results with concurrent psychiatric, medical, and clinical therapy. Examples of modalities include:

Detox process that might use medical support to help you withdraw from codeine safely and pain-free
Individual therapy to uncover your reasons for drug abuse and find healthy alternatives for handling stressors
Process and theme group therapy sessions that encourage personal growth through introspection and peer support
Dual diagnosis assessment and treatment for individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders
Transitional living for program participants who need a buffer between residential treatment and independent living

Santé Center for Healing is here to provide the treatment you need if you find yourself in a battle with codeine abuse. Contact us today to begin your journey of healing and recovery.

Codeine Abuse Treatment with Santé Center for Healing

Finding the proper treatment and supportive care for codeine abuse is possible with Santé Center for Healing. Our team of experts has experience helping individuals like you reclaim their lives from substance abuse and addiction. We provide evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to meet the individual’s needs in a safe, nurturing environment.