Wondering how long codeine stays in the body? The answer depends on several factors, including the amount of codeine taken and how long it has been since you last used it. If you or a loved one is addicted to codeine, a codeine addiction treatment center in Idaho can help.
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 to learn how our opioid addiction treatment center in Boise, Idaho can help you.
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 is 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 Does Codeine Stay in Your Body?
Wondering how long codeine stays in the system? The length depends largely on how much and how often you’ve used the drug. Generally, codeine is detectable in the body for three to five days after the last dose.
In certain frequent users or those with higher tolerance levels, detection times may be shorter or longer than this range. 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.
Benefits of Codeine Addiction Treatment
There are several benefits of codeine addiction treatment, including:
- Professional support every step of the way
- Access to medications, such as methadone and buprenorphine, to help with cravings
- Personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s individual needs
- Group therapy and counseling sessions
- Holistic treatments and therapies for mind, body, and spirit health
At Zelus Recovery, our experienced team utilizes evidence-based treatments and therapies designed to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and address underlying mental health issues in order to achieve long-lasting sobriety.
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. Contact Zelus Recovery’s team at 208.518.0797 or complete our convenient online form to learn about our opioid addiction treatment. 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.
