What is Codeine?

Codeine is a short acting opiate derived from poppy seeds. It is normally prescribed to treat:

Mild to Moderate Pain

Coughing

Severe Diarrhea

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Codeine works by changing the way the body senses pain and decreases the activity in the brain that causes coughing.

Why is Codeine addicting?

Codeine is a highly addictive substance and may be habit forming. Within a few weeks of consistently taking Codeine, the body adjusts to the presence of the drug and a tolerance develops. As a tolerance to Codeine develops, the body requires more and more Codeine to achieve pain relief. Taking higher doses of Codeine can increase the risk of experiencing uncomfortable side effects.

While the health consequences of developing a Codeine dependency are serious and potentially life threatening, the social consequences of the drug are equally disturbing.

Warning Signs of Codeine Addiction

• Extreme drug seeking behaviors
• Increased risky behaviors
• Appearance of withdrawal symptoms

If a person no longer wishes to continue taking Codeine or wants to discontinue taking the drug due to its side effects, medical supervision is necessary to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Codeine withdrawals are extremely uncomfortable and can start as soon as a few hours after the last dose.

Codeine Withdrawal Symptoms

• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Flu-like symptoms
• Vomiting

Outpatient Codeine Detox Treatment

Under the supervision of the professionals at Outpatient Detox, patients do not need to fear experiencing Codeine withdrawal symptoms. Patients can detox off of codeine in the comfort of their own homes with personalized treatment plans that allow them to remain safe, calm, comfortable and able to sleep at night throughout the detoxification period.