Codeine Addiction

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Last Updated:

March 31st, 2025

Although codeine has many benefits, it also carries a significant risk of addiction. Codeine addiction can be a devastating condition but many people do not even realise they are addicted until it’s too late. Recognising the signs of codeine addiction early, understanding who is most at risk and knowing how to seek help are all essential for safe codeine use and preventing addiction from destroying your life.

Because of its addictive potential, codeine is typically used for short-term pain relief and cough suppression. It’s often combined with other medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to enhance its pain-relieving effects. However, healthcare providers closely monitor its use and prescribe it cautiously to minimise the risk of addiction and other adverse effects.

What is codeine and is it addictive?

Codeine is an opioid medication used to treat mild to moderate pain and to suppress coughing. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body, reducing the perception of pain and suppressing cough reflexes.

As an opioid, codeine does have the potential for addiction and dependence, especially with prolonged or high-dose use. It can produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation, which can contribute to its addictive potential. Like other opioids, codeine can lead to tolerance, meaning that higher doses are required to achieve the same effect over time.

Why is codeine addictive?

The physical aspect of codeine’s addiction risk stems from its euphoric or sedative effects which can trigger repeat use, even when the drug is not needed. However, beyond these physical effects, there are several other factors which make the chances of developing an addiction more likely in some people than others:

Personal factors

Individuals with a history of substance abuse or those suffering from chronic pain may be more susceptible to developing an addiction to codeine as they seek relief or escape from physical and emotional discomfort.

Genetic predisposition

Genetic makeup plays a significant role in addiction, with some people being more genetically inclined to develop substance use disorders. This means that those with a family history of addiction to drugs or alcohol may have a higher risk of becoming addicted to codeine.

Environmental influences

Access to codeine, either through prescriptions or illicitly, can affect the likelihood of misuse and addiction. Living in an environment where drug use is normalised or where there is a lot of stress can also cause someone to start using codeine and become addicted.

Social factors

Peer pressure and social groups that condone or encourage drug use can significantly impact a person’s decision to use codeine recreationally. This always carries a high risk of addiction as there is no medical supervision to spot warning signs or prevent excessive use.

Mental health conditions

People dealing with anxiety, depression or other mental health issues may turn to codeine as a form of self-medication. This can lead to physical dependency over time as the body adapts to codeine’s presence, followed by psychological dependence as they rely on its effects to cope with their symptoms.

Understanding these factors is crucial for addressing codeine addiction, highlighting the need for a multifaceted approach to treatment that considers both the individual’s physical health and their broader social and psychological environment.

Codeine addiction side effects

Anyone using codeine must be aware of all the potential codeine addiction side effects. These can be both short-term problems and more serious, longer-term consequences. Some of the most common codeine addiction side-effects to look for in yourself or others include:

Drowsiness and lethargy
Mood swings
Confusion and impaired cognitive function
Chronic constipation
Mental health decline
Liver damage
Respiratory issues
Increased risk of codeine overdose
Social and relationship problems
Employment and financial instability

These codeine addiction side-effects can truly destroy your life, but recognising the need for help and reaching out to a healthcare professional can be a crucial step towards recovery.

How to spot codeine addiction symptoms

Codeine addiction can be difficult to identify, especially if you started using codeine for a genuine medical reason. Spotting the telltale codeine addiction symptoms requires you to closely examine your usage patterns, behaviours and feelings towards the medication. Answer these questions honestly, and they may provide some insight into whether your codeine use has crossed the line:

Have I been taking codeine in larger amounts or for a longer time than intended?
Do I have a strong desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control my codeine use?
Am I spending a lot of time obtaining, using or recovering from the effects of codeine?

Do I experience cravings or a strong urge to use codeine?
Is my codeine use interfering with my responsibilities at work, school or home?
Have I continued to use codeine despite it causing problems in my relationships?
Do I use codeine in situations where it is physically hazardous such as when I’m driving?
Have I developed a tolerance to codeine, needing more of the drug to achieve the desired effect?
Do I experience withdrawal symptoms when I attempt to stop or reduce my use of codeine?

Answering “yes” to several of these questions may point to codeine addiction symptoms and the need to seek professional evaluation and support.

What does codeine addiction treatment involve?

The initial stage of codeine addiction treatment within rehab often involves a closely monitored detoxification process. During detox, individuals undergo medical supervision to safely manage withdrawal symptoms as the drug leaves their system. Common withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, muscle pain, nausea, and anxiety. Medical professionals may administer medications to alleviate discomfort and reduce cravings. The goal of detox is to help individuals achieve physical stabilisation before transitioning into further treatment, addressing the underlying psychological factors of codeine addiction through therapy.

Codeine rehab can help individuals develop coping strategies for dealing with cravings and triggers and prevent a return to codeine use in the long term.

Get help for codeine addiction today

Overcoming codeine addiction is a journey that doesn’t have to be taken alone. Sanctuary Lodge offers a supportive and healing environment where you can access the care and treatment necessary to recover. Our team of professionals deliver a treatment programme that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction and gives you the best chance of a healthier, codeine-free future. Contact Sanctuary Lodge today to find out more.

FAQs

What are other names for codeine?

Codeine is known under various brand names and formulations, particularly when combined with other medications. Some common names include Co-Codamol (codeine combined with paracetamol), Nurofen Plus (codeine with ibuprofen) and Robitussin A-C (codeine in cough syrup form). These combinations are used to treat a range of conditions from mild to moderate pain to cough suppression. It is important to understand that any medication that contains codeine, particularly at high doses, carries a risk of addiction so must be taken with care and under strict medical guidance.

How much codeine causes addiction?

The risk of addiction to codeine varies among individuals and depends on several factors, including the dose, frequency of use and personal susceptibility. There isn’t a specific amount of codeine that universally leads to addiction, as even prescribed doses can result in dependency over time, particularly with long-term use. It is crucial for individuals taking codeine to follow their healthcare provider’s guidance closely and to be aware of codeine addiction symptoms.

(Click here to see works cited)

Carter, Alan, and Zawn Villines. “Codeine withdrawal: Symptoms, timeline, causes, and treatments.” Medical News Today, 9 May 2022, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326849#causes. Accessed 31 March 2024.
NHS. “Codeine: medicine to treat pain and diarrhoea.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/codeine/. Accessed 31 March 2024.
UK-Rehab. “Codeine Addiction & Abuse | UK Rehab.” UK-Rehab, https://www.uk-rehab.com/opiate-addiction/codeine/. Accessed 31 March 2024.