Codeine Detoxification
Codeine is a weak narcotic drug which is used as a pain-reliever similar to hydrocodone and morphine. It binds to brain receptors that are the responsible for transmitting pain sensation throughout the body. Codeine raises tolerance level to pain and lessen discomfort. When used together with acetaminophen or aspirin, it diminishes pain even greater making it an effective pain reliever. It acts as a sedative producing drowsiness and depressed breathing. Codeine can impair judgment and psychomotor skills that could adversely affect driving and machine operating. When combined with alcohol, Codeine can further impair brain functions causing confusion and disorientation. Being a narcotic drug, Codeine is addictive and habit forming when used for long periods of time exceeding the necessary dose prescribed by a physician.
Codeine detoxification is the first step to rehabilitation from Codeine addiction. It is best to gradually wean the patient from the use of Codeine as abrupt discontinuation poses a risk for having seizures and convulsions. A medically supervised Codeine detoxification program could greatly help as the patient is slowly weaned out of the substance. Withdrawal symptoms that occur during the detoxification process are generally experienced for seven days after which the patient can be checked in to a treatment center. These withdrawal symptoms can be effectively managed by medical professionals trained in this field while undergoing the Codeine detoxification program in a good facility.
Some of the withdrawal symptoms commonly experienced during Codeine detoxification are dehydration, headaches, fever, insomnia, intermittent heartbeat, nausea and vomiting, muscle twitching, stomach cramps, sweating, yawning, runny nose, weakness and hypertension. Patients going through these withdrawal symptoms sometimes find it painful but this critical phase is important in the recovery process. This is where the body readjusts as the substance is slowly eliminated from their system. It requires new skills as certain scenario and situations can trigger psychological stress which can be difficult for them.
It is of paramount importance to seek professional help when trying to wean out of Codeine as personal attempts to beat the addiction are less likely to succeed because it takes not only will power but involves coping skills to endure the pain and discomfort in the process. Addiction to Codeine is life threatening. It destroys relationships and it destroys life itself for the sufferer. It is also difficult for loved ones to cope with their family members who are Codeine dependent. Both need support and acceptance but primarily, the Codeine dependent must first accept the fact that he or she has a problem and that he or she needs help in this regard. Their willingness to get help and get out of their addiction is the driving force to their recovery and finding a good Codeine detoxification facility which offers quality detox treatment will make a big difference in the success of the treatment.
