Short Term Effects of Codeine

Some of the short term effects of codeine are actually what people are looking to feel, such as the intended effect of pain relief and/or cough suppression.  This intended effect of the medication is expected with use.  Codeine abusers, however, generally look for different effects, like feelings of sedation, relaxation, or euphoria.  These are the feelings that addicts try to regain with each use.  These are also the short term effects that lead to the psychological addiction to the drug.

Short Term Side Effects of Codeine Use

Short term effects of codeine can include nausea,
 upset stomach and vomiting.

Codeine’s side effects are numerous, as with any opiate, and are easily divided into two types, short term and long term effects.  Short term side effects are the side effects felt while still taking the medication and for a short period after discontinuing use.  These short term effects’ level of severity can range from mild to severe, with some being life threatening.  If you feel your life is in danger, you should seek immediate medical attention.

These short term effects can be experienced for several reasons.  First of all, your body may simply have an adverse reaction to codeine, because not everyone can handle codeine.  Allergic reactions can also result from codeine use, and can be very dangerous, even life threatening.  Signs of an allergic reaction include a rash, hives, swelling of the mouth or throat, as well as difficulty breathing.  If you or someone you know experience any of these symptoms, you should call 911 immediately.

If you are taking other medications, you may experience a drug interaction when using codeine.  This is why it is very important to tell your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, including but not limited to, other opiates, tranquilizers, sedatives, alcohol, as well as any herbal supplements or over-the-counter medications.  These types of medications mixed with codeine could cause respiratory depression and a myriad of other less severe side effects.

Lastly, if you take too much codeine you can experience side effects.  The most common side effects of codeine use include nausea and vomiting, lightheadedness, sleepiness, blurred or poor night vision, constipation, irregular thoughts or behavior, shallow breathing, slowed heartbeat, delirium, agitation, seizures, convulsions, loss of consciousness, or inability to urinate.  If you feel any of these side effects, you should discontinue use and seek medical attention.

Tolerance, Addiction, Withdrawal, and Overdose

Tolerance to codeine is something that can start to build in as little as a few weeks, especially if you do not follow the directions for use.  Once your tolerance begins to build, you will need to take more just to maintain the same feeling that you got before.  This leads to your body becoming physically and psychologically dependent on the drug, as well as overdose.  Once addiction is present, you will not be able to quit on your own, due to the painful withdrawals.  But you can find help.  There are rehab and recovery centers that can help you kick the habit, once and for all.  Don’t wait another minute, get help today.