CODEINE ABUSE

CODEINE ABUSE

Codeine is an opioid used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce coughing. It can be taken as a tablet, but it is also found in certain cough syrups and other stronger medicine.

Though considerably weaker than most other Opioids, it works the same way in the brain, inhibiting connections in pain receptors to reduce the body’s reaction to pain and induce feelings of pleasure/euphoria. 

Codeine is broken down in the body into its metabolite Morphine (this is what brings about the effects of the Codeine ).

Codeine like Morphine can have the same dose-dependent adverse effects this making just as dangerous.

Codeine does not cure cough but rather inhibits the part of the brain that triggers the cough sensation in the body.

Side effects of codeine

Taking of Codeine can cause certain undesirable effects such as:

Dizziness

Drowsiness

Vomiting

Nausea

Constipation

Sweating

Rashes

Weakness

Nervousness

Codeine should not be taken with other drugs (alcohol inclusive) unless prescribed by a doctor.

HOW IS CODEINE ABUSED

Codeine being an opiod makes addiction to it very easy and hard to overcome because of how it makes the body feel

The following are ways one can abuse codeine

Taking the medication in a way that is not prescribed, i.e., inhaling or intravenous injection

Taking more than prescribed or for longer than prescribed

Taking someone else’s medication that was not intended for you

Taking it to intentionally get high

It is often mixed with other substances such as alcohol or regular soda drinks ,this jas been found to increase the dependency of the user to this drug as it enhances the effects

A person’s reaction to and development of tolerance to codeine depends largely on body chemistry – some people break down the drug faster than others. Abuse of and addiction to codeine have been going on for many decades as a result, much research has been done on addiction to these drugs and treatment of that addiction.

Signs of Codeine Addiction

The signs of codeine addiction vary and include both behavioral and physical symptoms, which can present as changes in a person’s behavior, physical appearance, and physical health status. Behaviors in addiction can greatly affect a person’s physical appearance

Physical Signs of Codeine Addiction

Common physical signs of codeine addiction can include:7

Poor personal hygiene that can lead to weight loss, medical and dental problems, and odor.

Drowsiness.

Flu-like symptoms including a runny nose, fever, and chills.

Intense and uncontrollable cravings.

Behavioral Signs of Codeine Addiction

Behavioral signs of codeine addiction can look like many things. It can be difficult to watch a loved one engage in these detrimental and life-altering behaviors. It is important to remember that these are signs of addiction and not a reflection of the person’s values or integrity. These behavioral signs can include: 7 & 8

Frantic attempts to get codeine (lying, purchasing drugs illegally, and stealing money to get the drug).

Excessive preoccupation with the drug (change in behavior and mood without codeine).

Misuse of their prescription (using more than intended, taking someone else’s, using longer than intended, and ingesting the drug in a way not instructed by a doctor).

Social isolation and withdrawal that can significantly strain relationships.

Failure to adhere to responsibilities in many facets of life, which can lead to issues in parenting, work problems, legal issues, and unemployment and financial problems.

Withdrawing from once pleasurable activities and hobbies.

Changes in mood, such as depression and other mental health issues.

By : Aikhomu Onose Ella and Osunde Nosa Peter.