Navigation: Codeine Abuse, Effects of Codeine Abuse and Addiction
Although codeine is less potent than its drug relative morphine, it is still a powerful and addictive substance in its own right. In fact, an estimated 33 million people use codeine every year, while roughly 4.7 million Americans reported non-medical use of prescription pain relievers, including codeine.
This prescription pain medication often comes in tablet form and is used to treat mild to moderate pain. Codeine is also used as the main ingredient in prescription-grade cough suppressants. Codeine is combined with acetaminophen to create Tylenol 3, which is another widely used pain reliever.
Codeine Abuse
Codeine abuse may start with an innocent pain prescription. Because it is considered less dangerous than other opiates, codeine is also less regulated, making it easier for recreational users to abuse. The drug is easier to acquire than morphine and OxyContin, for instance.
When taken, codeine’s effects are similar to morphine. It can cause euphoria, apathy, drowsiness, and relaxation. But as an opiate, codeine runs a high risk of causing tolerance and dependence. While some people may begin using it to relieve a legitimate condition, it can quickly turn into abuse as tolerance develops.
Street names for codeine include cough syrup, schoolboy, coties and t-three’s.
Effects of Codeine Abuse and Addiction
Although some people think codeine is harmless, high doses of this drug can lead to respiratory failure, coma, and even death. The risk is especially high when codeine is taken with other drugs, especially nervous system depressants like alcohol or other opioids.
With continued abuse of codeine, it is possible to develop an addiction. Its reputation as a “safe” drug can lull its users into a false sense of security. Once they become addicted, they will continue taking the drug compulsively, even when it is already affecting their health. They will experience intense cravings or go through withdrawal when they stop taking it.
Some recreational users go from codeine to a more potent drug to experience a more intense high. However, combining codeine and other central nervous system depressants can be deadly. It can lead to dangerous levels of depression and respiratory failure.
Sometimes codeine is just the gateway drug into addiction to other substances, especially other opiates like oxycodone or morphine.
One notable form of codeine that is popular among recreational users is the so-called “purple drank”. This is a recreational form of the drug made by mixing prescription-grade codeine cough syrup and soft drinks such as Sprite or Mountain Dew. This allows for consumption in large doses. Purple drank is also referred to as lean, syrup, and sizzurp. Alarmingly, this form of codeine is glorified in pop culture, with multiple songs referencing its use. It is mentioned in songs by artists like Lil’ Wayne and Three 6 Mafia.
If someone in the family is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it is important to seek help. A combination of medical detox and behavioral therapy can go a long way in the fight against substance abuse. But because every individual is affected by addiction differently, a comprehensive program tailored to their specific needs is necessary. Look for a nearby addiction treatment facility today and find out how drug treatment programs work.
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