Codeine Addiction

Codeine is one of the "milder" opiates available for mild to moderate pain relief. It is found in some presciption cough medications too, as it can have a cough suppressant effect. For pain relief purposes, it is often combined with acetaminophen (Tylenol).

The medication is a naturally occurring component of opium, and can also be found in trace amounts in common poppy seeds - the type found on bagels and rolls. But don't worry about becoming codeine addicted just by eating a bagel - the amount is so small, its insignificant.

Codeine is available in pill and liquid form, and is usually prescribed every 4 to 6 hours for pain treatment. It is processed thorough a procedure that chemically alters morphine - turning it into the codeine.

Even though codeine is less potent that the other opioids I've discussed, it does have a definitve addiction potential, so it must be treated with respect. And because it is often combined with acetaminophen, it can cause liver damage if taken in high doses over an extended period of time.

There is another danger to codeine if you are addicted - its the exposure to high doses of acetaminophen. This medication is not without risk if taken in massive doses, which often occurs when you become addicted. High amounts can cause serious damage to your liver, even causing full liver function shutdown and deaths. Another reason why you should seek treatment for the addiction immediately.

I have seen firsthand the ravage and devastation from such liver failure. It happens to otherwise healthy, vibrant people. So get help ASAP if you are exposing yourself. So to avoid addiction, only take it as prescribed - never take a larger dose than instructed by your physician or start taking it more frequently.

The good news if you are addicted to this drug, is that it is possible to treat it with Suboxone or Subutex. This is due to its shorter duration of action and lower potency.

Click this link to discover the Suboxone Treatment Options offered by Dr. Gilman