Codeine’s recent surge in popularity over the last two decades has brought with it a corresponding increase in cases of abuse. Its ability to be purchased OTC and the trend of recreationally ingesting it in cough syrup form – with decorative sweets and additional addictive substances – makes it a particularly dangerous and insidious addiction. Regardless of whether the formulation ingested is acquired over-the-counter or through a prescription, codeine drug abuse remains a public threat can lead to serious dependency issues that will only respond to customized addiction treatment plans. At BetterAddictionCare, we offer a host of resources that will help you or the addict in your life get help now and start healing from codeine addiction. Begin the journey towards freedom from substance abuse by participating in our pre-treatment assessment to find the right rehab centers for your individual situation that accept your private insurance.

Cough syrup and codeine abuse often presents with some obvious physical manifestations. Pupil changes are common in opiate abuse and drowsiness or an inexplicable nodding off can accompany overuse of the drug. Skin can be cold to the touch and apathy toward personal and family obligations may be noted. A bluish hue on the lips, nose, and fingers may also point to codeine abuse and can even precede serious overdose. The highly trained medical professionals in our recovery network can recognize physical symptoms of codeine abuse and address them during the first part of recovery so that withdrawal and detox can be a safe experience with the least amount of discomfort.

Other signs of codeine drug abuse may be less obvious, but can be recognized, if friends and family of addicts know what to look for in an addict’s behavior. These include the continued use of codeine after recovery from an illness or injury and reliance on codeine for numerous, unrelated ailments. An increase in accidents while attempting to perform daily or routine activities may also point to codeine abuse. Addicts have also been known to compulsively collect sources of codeine and carry the drug on their person regardless of current health status. Successful addiction recovery addresses both physical and psychological dependencies on codeine. We provide recommendations and details on top alternative rehab programs in our nationwide recovery network and our mission is to help addicts start healing by acknowledging all facets of addictions.

Codeine cough syrup abuse may also accompany large purchases of OTC cold medications and the sudden appearance of empty medicine bottles around the home. Individuals who live with codeine abusers may find that the medicines in their personal space have been inexplicably depleted or can note a strange, chemical smell emanating from an abuser’s room or shared common areas. Abuse of this drug can take many forms, but almost always occurs alongside the disappearance or misuse of money. If you or someone you love suffers from codeine drug abuse, call today to speak with a counselor and be matched with an inpatient or outpatient program or rehab center near you.