Tips for Easing Codeine Withdrawal Symptoms

Codeine is used to treat mild to moderate pain or coughs. It has the potential for abuse and addiction which can lead to the use of more potent opioids such as morphine. Withdrawals from codeine increase in intensity the longer it is used, the more frequently used, and the higher the dosage.

Causes of Addiction

Addiction to codeine involves a combination of factors and some people are more susceptible to addiction or abuse than others. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “The risks for addiction to prescription drugs increase when they are used in ways other than as prescribed (e.g., at higher doses, by different routes of administration, or combined with alcohol or other drugs.”

Tips for Easing Codeine Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms subside on their own within a week or so, and some simple coping mechanisms go a long way!

Codeine withdrawal symptoms are usually manageable with a few basic tips, but, when the user has co-existing health or substance abuse issues, they become more complex and unpredictable. That is why a detox treatment for codeine abuse is recommended.

Hydration

Maintaining hydration is important during withdrawals because symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can drain the body of necessary fluids and cause further complications. In the least, drinking lots of fluid will help to flush the toxins from the body more quickly.

Nutrition

Whenever someone takes opioids like codeine, their metabolism and hormones are affected and they may not be getting the proper nutrients and vitamins they need to stay healthy. It is important to eat right in order to support the body and mind as it adjusts to the biological changes happening during withdrawal.

Rest

Over time, the brain becomes dependent on the codeine for dopamine increases, and without it the neurotransmitter communications are unbalanced, sending signals that produce withdrawal symptoms. Lots of rest is needed to give the brain time to heal from these disruptions.

Managing Physical Symptoms

Nausea can make it difficult to eat or drink things for days during codeine withdrawal. But, these things are important so, to control nausea sipping teas with ginger or peppermint may be helpful. Sucking on frozen fruits or cutting a lemon may help to cut nausea and calm the stomach. Over the counter remedies are also available and products such as Pepto-Bismol or Imodium AD may help with the vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.

Headache, fever, muscle aches, and other pains can be alleviated by taking acetaminophen, or ibuprofen. Hot showers help to relieve these symptoms as well as chills, sweating, and other unpleasantness and also may help to stimulate blood flow for quicker absorption of oxygen and nutrients to heal.

Managing Psychological Symptoms

Anxiety, depression, agitation, restlessness, and insomnia are more difficult to manage and it takes time to heal these symptoms. Exercise, nutrition, sun, and keeping occupied may help the most. OTC sleep aids or antihistamines can pose health risks and should be used with caution. Because these symptoms manifest into others, they can be dangerous and professional help is needed.