Cough syrup is meant to help us get over a bad cold or flu, but sometimes even the most innocent of medicines can become an addictive substance. Codeine cough syrup is one such medicine that can be dangerous if abused.
So how likely is it to get addicted to this medication? In this blog post, we’ll look at the side effects and risks associated with codeine use, how you could recognize the signs of addiction, and what type of treatment might be needed if you think someone has developed a dependence on codeine cough syrup.
Contents
What is Codeine Cough Syrup and How Is It Used
Codeine is an opioid medication that is a pain reliever and cough suppressant. Cough syrups containing codeine are generally prescribed for treating persistent coughs caused by infectious diseases or respiratory problems.
However, despite being an effective medication, codeine is highly likely abused and, consequently, categorized as a Schedule II substance by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.
Understanding the Risks of Addiction
Individuals who take codeine cough syrup may develop a tolerance for the medication, which can significantly increase their risk of addiction. An increased tolerance can lead to the overuse of the drug, which can lead to addiction.
Codeine cough syrup addiction can have considerable physical and emotional effects on individuals who misuse it. Long-term use of codeine cough syrup can lead to several severe health issues, including seizures, liver and brain damage, kidney failure, and even death.
Identifying Warning Signs of Addiction
Several warning signs can signify codeine cough syrup addiction. Some typical symptoms include taking more than the recommended dose, feeling the need or urge to use the medication more, neglecting responsibilities at school or work due to substance abuse, and exhibiting mood swings, aggression, or irritability. Individuals abusing codeine cough syrup may experience behavioral changes such as social isolation and insomnia.
Exploring the Impact of Codeine Cough Syrup on Mental Health
Codeine cough syrup addiction can have a considerable impact on mental health. Individuals who get addicted to codeine cough syrup may begin to experience severe mood changes, anxiety, or depression.
These individuals may be prone to self-harm and even have suicidal thoughts. Prolonged abuse of codeine cough syrup can also lead to the development of psychological disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychosis.
Investigating Long-Term Effects of Codeine Abuse
Long-term use of codeine cough syrup can lead to significant physical and mental health issues. Frequent medication use can lead to liver and kidney damage, respiratory problems, and mental health disorders. Individuals who have maintained drug abuse habits using codeine cough syrup for an extended period can experience memory loss, hallucinations, and even coma.
Strategies to Help Manage and Avoid Codeine Cough Syrup Addiction
The best approach to avoid codeine cough syrup addiction is to manage pain and coughs with milder over-the-counter medications and avoid using codeine-containing cough syrup excessively. In case an individual is dependent on codeine cough syrup already, seeking counseling, therapy, or a formal drug treatment center can help manage addiction. Recovering from drug addiction is an uphill task, typically requiring long-term commitment and support.
Addiction To Codeine Cough Syrup: In Closing
Codeine cough syrup addiction poses a significant threat to public health, and the risks associated with its misuse are high. Prolonged use of the medication can damage vital organs such as the liver and kidneys and have devastating effects on mental health.
Those prone to drug addiction should seek alternative treatments and utilize codeine-containing cough syrup cautiously. In the case of addiction, there are several strategies one can use to avoid relapse and maintain long-lasting recovery, including support group therapy, counseling, and formal drug treatment.
