Codeine,Things you must know

What is Codeine?

Codeine is a member of the drug class opiates. Opiates include all naturally occurring drugs with morphine-like effects such as codeine and all semi and fully synthetic drugs with morphine-like effects such as heroin and meperidine (Demerol). Codeine was first discovered as a natural constituent of opium in very small concentrations, in the range of 0.7% - 2.5% by weight. Most codeine found in pharmaceutical products today is synthetically produced via the methylation of morphine.

How is Codeine used?

Codeine can be administered orally (PO), subcutaneously (SC), intramuscularly (IM) and rectally (PR). Codeine cannot be safely administered by an intravenous (IV) injection as it may result in pulmonary oedema, facial swelling, dangerous release of histamines, and various cardiovascular effects. It cannot be administered intranasally (snorting). Codeine free base can be smoked on the aluminum foil ("chasing the dragon") similarly to smoking heroin.

Signs of Codeine addiction and abuse

Common signs and side effects of Codeine use

Codeine is absorbed quickly from the GI tract and it's first pass through the liver results in very little loss of the drug. This contrasts with morphine in which over 90% of the drug is metabolized in the first pass through the liver resulting in a considerable loss of potency when administered orally.

Narcotics induce an "opioid analgesia" by altering the perception of pain at the spinal cord and brain. They also affect emotional responses to pain. Opioids have stimulating effects as well because they block inhibitory neurotransmitters. Repeated use of these drugs can cause long-term changes in the way the nervous system functions.

Codeine has a variety of recognizable side effects, including:

• stomach bleeding
• kidney and liver damage
• "itchies"
• constipation
• nausea
• hangover
• tiny pupils, blurred vision, poor night vision
• impair your ability to drive
• lowered heart rate, blood pressure and breathing
• disorientation, hallucinations
• convulsions
• depression
• sexual problems
• agitation, tremors, and seizures

·          

Effects of Codeine addiction

Codeine is absorbed quickly from the GI tract and it's first pass through the liver results in very little loss of the drug. This contrasts with morphine in which over 90% of the drug is metabolized in the first pass through the liver resulting in a considerable loss of potency when administered orally. Narcotics induce an "opioid analgesia" by altering the perception of pain at the spinal cord and brain. They also affect emotional responses to pain. Opioids have stimulating effects as well because they block inhibitory neurotransmitters. Repeated use of these drugs can cause long-term changes in the way the nervous system functions. •stomach bleeding •kidney damage •liver damage •"itchies" •constipation •nausea •hangover •tiny pupils •blurred vision •poor night vision •impair your ability to drive •lowered heart rate, blood pressure and breathing •disorientation •convulsions •hallucinations •depression •sexual problems •agitation •tremors •seizures

Common symptoms of Codeine withdrawal

Withdrawal symptoms of codeine include:

• runny nose
• sweating
• muscle twitching and muscle pain
• headaches
• irregular heartbeat
• nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps
• high blood pressure
• fever
• insomnia and yawning
• dehydration
• weakness

The worst symptoms pass within a few days, but it can take months to feel normal.

treatment

Codeine is a highly addictive prescription drug. Recovery and rehabilitation from Codeine addiction may require a treatment program ranging from certified addiction counseling to treatment at a residential alcohol and drug rehab center, depending on the extent of the addiction and a number of other factors. 
 Consultant Physician with facts and Figures Email- caremed001@gmail.com Blackberry Pin - 74282d21