Codeine
Codeine
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Codeine is part of a group of drugs known as Opioids. Opioids interact with opioid receptors in the brain and elicit a range of responses within the body, from feelings of pain relief, to relaxation, pleasure and contentment. Codeine is used to provide relief from a number of conditions, including:
• Mild to moderate pain
• Severe pain (when combined with aspirin or paracetamol)
• Dry irritating cough
• Diarrhea
• Cold and flu (when combined with antihistamines and decongestants) -
Common Names
Captain Cody
Cody
Little C
Schoolboy
Codeine Syrup includes:
Act
Lean
Purple Drank
Sizzurp
Texas Tea
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How is it used?
Some people misuse codeine by intentionally taking more than the recommended dose to get high, or as an act of self-harm. Codeine is usually swallowed and comes in different forms, including:
• Tablets
• Capsules
• Suppositories
• Soluble powders and tablets
• Liquids
Side Effects of Codeine
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There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries risk - even medications can produce unwanted side effects.
Codeine affects everyone differently, based on:
• The person’s size, weight and health
• Whether the person is used to taking it
• Whether other drugs are taken around the same time
• The amount taken -
The most common side effects of codeine are:
Dizziness
Tiredness
Confusion, difficulty concentrating
Euphoria, restlessness
Blurred vision
Dry mouth
Limbs feeling heavy or muscles feeling stiff
Sweating
Mild allergic rash, itching and hives
Decreased heart rate, palpitations
Stomach-ache, nausea, vomiting, constipation
Difficulty urinating
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Long-term effects:
Regular use of codeine may eventually cause:
Constipation
Reduced sex drive
Irregular periods
Tension and muscle twitches
Needing to use more to get the same effect
Dependence on codeine
Financial, work and social problems
Codeine Overdose
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If the dose is too high, you might overdose. If you experience any of the below symptoms, call an ambulance straight away by dialing 999 or 112:
Inability to pass urine
Severe constipation and obstructed bowel
Agitation
Cold clammy skin with a bluish tinge
Mental numbness
Very slow, shallow breathing
Hallucinations and sometimes seizures
Coma and death
Mixing Codeine with other drugs
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Codeine + Alcohol
Mental clouding, reduced coordination and slow breathing.
The effects of taking Codeine with other drugs, including alcohol, prescription medications and other over-the-counter medicines, are often unpredictable and dangerous.
