Treating Codeine Addiction

Codeine addiction is a pervasive, progressive chronic disease that affects countless Americans. There are more than 33 million people using Codeine annually in the United States. Out of the 33 million, over 4.7 million individuals reported using prescription pain relievers for non-medical use. What makes this drug even more dangerous is how easily accessible it is. Codeine, also known as “lean,” is available as a tablet and is the main ingredient in prescription-grade cough suppressants. Though the drug is an Opiate, it is less regulated than others like Morphine. This ease of access increases the risks of people developing a Codeine addiction. 

The prolonged use of Codeine is associated with negative physical and mental changes like:

• Decreased libido
• Fatigue
• Sexual dysfunction
• Pruritus (severe itching)
• Urinary retention 
• Hypersensitivity 
• Blurred vision 
• Bronchospasm 
• Tremor 
• Abdominal cramps
• Pancreatitis

The prescribed medication, sometimes called a narcotic, is considered a gateway drug to other Opiates. Unfortunately, the use of Codeine has gained popularity in American culture. Artists like Lil’ Wayne have even referenced sipping on “lean” in their songs. The glorification of this narcotic has increased its use. Emergency room visits involving painkillers are up by over 152%. 

Because codeine is a prescribed substance, it can be hard to tell if an addiction has formed. Here are some signs of a codeine addiction:

• Increased tolerance
• Interpersonal problems
• Appetite issues
• Mood swings
• Constipation
• Feeling tired and weak
• Isolating from friends and family

Codeine Addiction Treatment

Codeine may be legal, but it is far from harmless. In large doses, the highly addictive drug is deadly. Finding Codeine addiction treatment as soon as possible is both crucial and possible. Through self-determination, individuals can gain back control over their lives. 

Codeine addiction treatment almost always begins with a detox plan. Like other opiates, prolonged Codeine use creates a high level of physical dependence. A patient’s system must first cleanse to find the root cause of the addiction and dive into therapy. During Opiate detoxification, overwhelming withdrawal symptoms may occur. 

Codeine withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Agitation
• Anxiety
• Muscle aches
• Increased tearing
• Insomnia
• Runny nose
• Sweating
• Yawning
• Abdominal cramping
• Diarrhea
• Dilated pupils
• Goosebumps
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Though Codeine withdrawal symptoms can be severe, they are not deadly. During this stage of recovery, patients must be monitored to avoid complications or relapse. An excellent option for both safety and around-the-clock care is inpatient rehab treatment.

Codeine Addiction Treatment In Inpatient Rehabs

Receiving Codeine addiction treatment in inpatient rehabs is correlated with a higher rate of recovery. These specialized facilities offer their patients 24-hour medical care, away from harmful triggers. A typical inpatient facility can offer its guests the benefits of safety, structure, and personalized treatments. During detox, guests have the professional support and guidance of health professionals. Based on the severity of their addiction, a physician may recommend medically assisted treatment (MAT). 

Typical medications used during a Codeine addiction treatment include:

• Buprenorphine
• Clonidine
• Methadone
• Naltrexone

MAT treatments ease withdrawal symptoms and help individuals focus on other forms of therapy. During MAT at an inpatient facility, patients receive round-the-clock professional supervision. This constant care helps ensure the safety of detoxing individuals. 

On average, a Codeine detox takes about a week. Though detox may seem quick overall rehabilitation is much longer. Treatment can take between 30 and 60 days. At times, it can last up to a year or longer, depending on the patient’s unique needs. 

During inpatient rehab, healthcare professionals may recommend other forms of therapy. A combination of science-based treatments like counseling is known to increase an individual’s rate of recovery. Even though Codeine addiction treatment at an inpatient rehab has the highest success rate, it is not always an option for everyone. 

Codeine Addiction Treatment In Outpatient Rehabs 

Codeine addiction treatment in outpatient rehabs is an excellent option for individuals with a busy schedule and mild-to-moderate drug withdrawal symptoms. These facilities offer many of the traditional science-based therapies found in inpatient rehabs without full-time dedication. This part-time option has fewer restrictions, is less expensive, and only requires a 10 to 12 hours weekly commitment. 

Individuals can finish treatment at an outpatient rehab in 3 to 6 months without interrupting their regular schedule. Most therapy sessions or meetings occur early in the morning or evening to avoid interrupting a patients’ routine. Outpatient rehabs are an excellent option for a busy parent, executive, or entrepreneur. They offer flexibility, safety, and support. 

Find Rehab Services For Codeine Addiction

Codeine addiction may seem harmless, but it is far from it. Opiate misuse and abuse is a dangerous problem in the United States. The highly addictive drug has the power to destroy an individual’s life. There is, however, hope. Countless people who struggled with Opiate addiction have successfully recovered. If you or a loved one is battling a Codeine addiction, reach out to a treatment provider. They will find answers to all of your rehab questions. Contact a treatment provider today to help you find the help that you deserve.