Doctors prescribe codeine to help manage pain and suppress coughing. Codeine is technically considered an opiate, not an opioid, although the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably. Opiates are naturally derived from the poppy plant, while opioids are semi-synthetic or fully synthetic substances that provide people with the same effects as opiates. Codeine can appear and be taken in tablet, capsule, or liquid form and can be swallowed or injected. People with a prescription for codeine or medication that includes codeine should take it as directed. Low doses of the drug are available for over-the-counter purchase in some parts of the United States. The opioid is an ingredient in some variations of Tylenol . Codeine also is a major ingredient in various cough syrups, including: Robitussin AC Phenergan Codeine Fioricet with codeine

Is Codeine Addictive?

Since codeine can be obtained through a doctor’s prescription, some people might believe that it’s a harmless drug and can be taken regularly with no consequences. This is not true: codeine can be addictive if misused or taken for long periods. As a prescription medication, many people begin taking codeine in small doses with little risk of addiction. They may only receive a short-term prescription and finish that prescription without becoming addicted. In higher doses, codeine is much more potent and highly addictive. Taking codeine in any way other than prescribed, including recreationally, is also codeine abuse and has a greater risk of addiction. However, you can take codeine exactly as directed and still become addicted. As with any opioid, a tolerance can develop over time, where the body becomes used to the drug’s presence and needs more to get the same effects. If someone takes codeine consistently over a long period or in high doses, their body can also develop a physical dependence, where they experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop using codeine.

What Are Codeine Side Effects?

Codeine affects the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain and coughing. Codeine changes into morphine when it enters a person’s brain and binds to the central nervous system’s opioid receptors, leading to pain relief. Like many opioids and opiates, the feel-good effects of the drug are what often lead to addiction — people who take codeine can experience a euphoric high similar to heroin. Examples of codeine side effects can include: Feeling dizzy or drowsy Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain Constipation Sweating Itching Urination problems Seizures Feeling extreme happiness or sadness Slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, or shallow breathing Confusion, agitation, hallucinations, or unusual thoughts or behaviors

What Are Codeine Withdrawal Symptoms?

When codeine withdrawal symptoms appear, this is a sign that someone is addicted to codeine and should seek treatment. Withdrawal symptoms can include : Agitation Insomnia Runny nose Sweating Yawning Increased tearing Muscle aches Anxiety Late symptoms of withdrawal are usually more uncomfortable, including: Goosebumps Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Dilated pupils Abdominal pain

What are Some Codeine Street Names?

There are many codeine nicknames that people should be aware of when determining if a friend or a family member suffers from codeine addiction. Some of the most common street names for the drug include : Captain cody Cody Little c Schoolboy Dors Fours Texas tea Purple drank Sizzurp