Codeine is the most widely used, naturally occurring narcotic in medical treatment in the world. It is an addictive alkaloid found in opium in concentrations ranging from 0.7 to 2.5 percent. Most codeine used in the United States is produced from morphine, and is the starting material for not only codeine, but also dihydrocodeine and hydrocodone. Codeine is medically prescribed for relief of moderate pain and cough suppression, and compared with morphine, codeine produces less analgesia and respiratory depression. Codeine is usually ingested orally in pill form, however it can also be found in some liquid preparations (i.e. cough suppressants). Unfortunately, many people who receive a legitimate prescription for codeine wind up a victim of addiction for a variety of reasons. Some people are genetically predisposed to addiction; others have an underlying mental health issue that has never been addressed, and the sedative-like relief of codeine offers an easy way to self-medicate. At The Ranch PA, we have helped many clients recover physically, psychologically, and spiritually from the damage caused by addiction. Learn more about our qualified, understanding therapists and our holistic approach to sobriety, and find out how we can help your family walk a lifelong path to recovery. The Short and Long-Term Effects of CodeineCodeine is the key ingredient in a variety of products, including Tylenol with codeine, Codalgin, Nurofen Plus, Pirophen, Panadeine, and other over the counter codeine cough syrups. Codeine is quite similar to hydrocodone and as with hydrocodone, is addictive and often abused for its opiate effects. It provides more than pain relief, and often leaves users with a feeling of euphoria. Use of codeine can lead to confusion, shallow breathing and heartbeat, agitation, hallucinations, convulsions, and tolerance. Over time, the user develops a tolerance to the drug, and must increase the amount ingested in order to produce the same effects. Continued use can also cause the brain to slow and in some cases stop endorphin production, which can cause severe pain. Eventually, codeine addicts suffer from high blood pressure, nausea, liver damage, stomach ulcers, and more. Codeine Rehab at The Ranch PA Due to the fact that codeine is a legally prescribed drug, it is often difficult to convince the addict that he/she needs codeine addiction treatment. However, once the addict is willing to enter treatment, it is imperative that they seek a medically supervised detox and rehabilitation facility with strong post-treatment support. At The Ranch PA, our small, community-oriented environment fosters a sense of security and understanding among our clients, who learn to heal the damage their addictions have caused to their lives and relationships. Through several progressive therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing Therapy, Music Therapy, Art Therapy, and others, you will learn the tools you need to cope with the stresses of the world outside rehab. For information on medically supervised detox and/or inpatient rehabilitation treatment, call us now at 1-877-548-4794. Photo via
