Codeine addiction is a very real problem that affects people all over the world. Codeine is a painkiller and is found in prescription drugs like Tylenol and Nurofen. It is a highly addictive substance that can lead to physical and mental dependency.

This isn’t surprising when you look into where Codeine actually comes from. Codeine comes from the poppy flower, the same source as morphine and heroin; it acts as a powerful painkiller. This drug is used to treat health problems such as pain, anxiety, and headaches. Heavy or long-term use of Codeine can severely damage the body of the addict.

When a drug has addiction potential and is freely available from pharmacies and supermarkets, this can result in consumers using more than the recommended dose. A tolerance can begin to form that naturally leads to increased dosage. If one Codeine pill doesn’t cure your headache, then two will, if two doesn’t work, then four will and so on.

A decrease in sex drive is the main indicator that someone is abusing Codeine. There are other signs that could indicate Codeine abuse such as drowsiness and slow motor skills.

Codeine addiction is just as serious as heroin or morphine abuse and should be treated by admission into a drug rehabilitation center. The addict will attempt to take Codeine in any way that they can. This includes, but is not limited to, oral use, smoking, and injected.

When the addict is using, they will experience euphoria, and will try to reach that same peak every time they use . This means increased dosages over time. As with most varieties of addiction, a Codeine addict may try and manage their dependency for a time. Eventually, their life becomes unmanageable and the user will begin to withdraw from society.

Anyone can become addicted to Codeine, especially if you’re using it on a long-term basis for acute or chronic pain. Codeine is also a popular recreational drug. It produces the same kind of high as heroin and suppresses emotional physical pain. There is also a trend for mixing Codeine with alcohol for an extra buzz. These cocktails are extremely dangerous and can lead to an accidental overdose.

Beating Codeine addiction is difficult. Withdrawal symptoms include: a racing heart beat, sweating, twitching, stomach pain, fever and vomiting.

Long-term Codeine abuse not only damages the user in the short-term, but can also result in additional health problems years later. There are specialized treatment centers available that can help wean the addict off this drug and aid in recovery from the severe withdrawal symptoms.

Much like a heroin or morphine addict, Codeine addiction is not something a user can beat on their own. Many rehab centers offer counseling services for family and friends. If you or a family member are suffering from Codeine addiction there are many medical services professionals who can help you find a place to recover and regain your life.