How long does it take to fully go through codeine withdrawal? What are your options for detoxing?
Learn more to discover how it’s possible to take back your life and what the detox process involves.
What Causes Codeine Withdrawal?
Dependence or addiction to codeine causes the addict to take more of the drug each time they use it. In order to get the same high each time, it’s necessary to take more and more codeine.
When coming off codeine, it’s natural to go through withdrawal. This is more extreme when quitting cold turkey.
Withdrawal can feel like a scary experience, but it doesn’t need to be. Choosing a treatment center can make all the difference in coming off codeine and allowing your body to slowly ease back into the norm.
Codeine Withdrawl Symptoms
Codeine withdrawal symptoms vary by individual. If you or a loved one are going through codeine withdrawal, these are some of the most common symptoms to experience:
- Anxiety
- Feeling irritable
- Rapid heartbeat
- Muscles that ache
- Sweating
- Sleeping problems
As the withdrawal symptoms continue, you’ll notice advanced symptoms such as:
- Appetite loss
- Stomach issues including cramps, nausea, and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Chills
It’s helpful to know what you could go through while coming off the drug, however, there’s no guarantee you’ll experience everything on the list here.
But knowing what can happen and feeling prepared will help make you better equipped to go through withdrawal.
Duration of Codeine Withdrawal
Because the process varies for each person, there’s no definitive timeline when your withdrawal will end. When you first stop taking the drug, physical symptoms are at their strongest.
Most people notice symptoms within 72 hours of stopping the drug. If you’re concerned about handling it on your own, going to a detox center could save your life.
Here, you’re under the care of medical personnel and can feel confident that you’ll get the assistance you need, even when you’re not feeling well.
If you’re slowly tapering off the drug, it takes longer for everything to get out of your system, so you won’t be officially “clean” until at least a week or two. However, you’ll have fewer symptoms to deal with in the end.
It’s best to talk with your doctor and find out what the best detox route is for you.
Codeine Withdrawal Timeline
Codeine withdrawal typically takes about a month to get out of your body. This depends on how much you used it, how long you’ve been taking it, and your current methods of withdrawing.
The first four days, you’ll experience the most negative symptoms. These include everything from nausea to vomiting and feeling shakey. Sweating and headaches are also common factors that accompany this situation.
Moving on to days 5-7, you’ll notice emotional symptoms that may feel difficult to control. Depression is common for many people going through this period, as is some minor physical symptoms like sweating.
Finally, during the 8-30th day of being off codeine, you’ll deal with feelings of depression and cravings for the drug. This is normal, although it can make this period in your life feel longer than you’d like.
Every step of the withdrawal process is difficult to deal with. That’s why it’s important to work with a professional who can help you stay grounded and moving forward in emotional healing.
Handling these issues can prevent you from returning to a life of addiction.
Detoxing From Codeine On Your Own
Detoxing is a difficult process. Doing it on your own with no guidance or professional help can seem impossible.
It’s suggested that if you are quitting cold turkey, it’s better to do so with a detox center and the help of the medical staff. That way you’ll be taken care of when it seems impossible to do anything on your own.
If you’re choosing to taper off, you’ll have the chance to use a legal drug prescribed for the purposes of detoxing. Either way, you’re being taken care of by professionals who can let you know what to expect and how you’ll feel throughout the process.
Medical Detox for Codeine
Medical detox for codeine allows your body to come off the drug slowly, making the process bearable. While you’ll still experience some symptoms, they aren’t as difficult as those experienced when quitting cold turkey on your own.
With different levels of detox facilities, you’ll get placed in the best match for your needs. From there, doctors work closely with you to monitor how you’re doing as you begin the process of starting life over again — without codeine.
How Medical Detox Works and What to Expect
Medical detox generally means close supervision by medical personnel. These professionals monitor you, adjusting medication as needed in order to keep you comfortable.
If you’ve been a heavy user or took codeine for a long time, medical supervision is the easiest way to come off the drug safely.
It’s important to note you’ll still experience withdrawal symptoms and likely feel depressed during the process.
Medications Available for Codeine Detox
Going off codeine slowly and effectively is a possibility, thanks to advancements in medication options.
Medications that provide relief from symptoms but don’t carry the same danger of addiction include Clonidine and Lofexidine. These manage symptoms like stomach problems or irritability, making it easier to go through the detox process.
For severe withdrawal, Methadone offers pain management. This particular drug imitates opioids without giving off a high, making it a useful candidate for anyone going through medical detox.
Get the Help You Need Now
If you or a loved one is going through a codeine withdrawal or wants to take the first step in kicking the drug for good, there are many options. Starting the detox process can feel overwhelming, but it’s a crucial first step in beginning a new drug-free life.
If you’re looking for help, we’re here to assist you. Contact us today to see how we can help find the right detox and treatment for you or someone you care about.
