Successful opioid addiction treatment is not only about detox. In order to avoid relapse, the underlying causes must be thoroughly addressed and an effective plan put into place. At Zelus Recovery, we believe in treating the whole patient, not just the surface symptoms of substance abuse. Call our team today at 208.518.0797 or complete our online form to learn more about how our opioid addiction treatment center can help you permanently conquer your dependency.
What Are the Effects of Codeine on Your System?
Codeine belongs to a class of synthetic drugs referred to as opiates, which work very similarly to other opioids, such as heroin and morphine. Rather than treating problems in the body directly, it interrupts signals to the brain, reducing the sensation of mild to moderate pain as well as the impulse to cough. It is most commonly consumed as an analgesic and prescription-strength cough suppressant or in tablet form and often consumed within a mixed beverage for recreational purposes.
Both opiates like codeine and opioids cause the user to enter a highly relaxing, sedated state, which can be addicting if entered too often or with higher or more frequent dosings than prescribed by a medical doctor. Unfortunately, codeine is somewhat less regulated than other controlled substances, increasing access to the general population, particularly younger users.
How Long Is Codeine In Your System?
Although the patient will feel the effects of codeine for approximately three or four hours, this is only the metabolic half-life of codeine in your system. Because the physical effects subside before the body has eliminated the drug, the chance of overdose increases.
The length of time codeine can be detected via a drug test varies depending on the patient’s user history. Saliva and blood detection tests will register codeine for twenty-four hours and urine tests up to forty-eight hours. Usage may be detectable in a chronic user for up to a week and remain present in hair follicles for up to ten weeks.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Codeine Use?
As with any opioid or opiate, it is possible to overdose on codeine, especially when combined with other drugs or alcohol. Other codeine effects include:
- Psychological dependence
- Increased tolerance, necessitating larger and larger doses to achieve the initial high
- Reduction in libido
- Muscular twitching
- Digestive problems, especially constipation
- Extreme cravings
- Menstrual irregularities
- Anxiety and depression
There is also a significantly increased risk of respiratory or cardiac arrest, brain injury, seizures, liver or kidney failure, pulmonary edema, and other catastrophic health conditions.
Due to the addictive nature of codeine, withdrawal symptoms can present very quickly. These include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Restless or agitation
- Muscle aches
- Runny nose and other flu-like symptoms
- Digestive problems, including nausea and vomiting
- Alternating bouts of sweating and chills
As with all opioids or opiates, the longer a person uses them, the higher the chance of overdose and accidental death. That’s why it’s crucial for people with opioid addiction to seek treatment from professionals, such as the team at Zelus Recovery.
Explore Opioid Addiction Treatment at Zelus Recovery
If you or a loved one are growing concerned that you may have a codeine dependency, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about moving forward. You don’t have to take the next steps alone; in fact, it is necessary to detox under medical supervision to guarantee your safety. Call our team at 208.518.0797 or complete our convenient online form to learn about opioid addiction treatment at Zelus Recovery. Our team is ready to tell you how we can help you establish the network of support required to regain control of your life. It is never too late to reach out for help.
