Unmasking The Dark Reality Of Codeine Abuse In The USA.

Codeine is an opiate-based drug derived from the opium poppy. It is primarily used to treat mild to moderate pain, but it can also be used to treat coughing and diarrhea. Codeine is also found in combination with other drugs, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, to treat moderate to severe pain. While it is generally safe when taken as prescribed, codeine abuse is becoming increasingly common in the United States. In this blog, we will explore the history, causes, symptoms, and treatment of codeine abuse in the US.

What Is Codeine?

Codeine is an opiate-based drug derived from the opium poppy. It is primarily used to treat mild to moderate pain, but it can also be used to treat coughing and diarrhea. Codeine is also found in combination with other drugs, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, to treat moderate to severe pain. Codeine is a schedule II drug, which means it has a high potential for abuse and addiction.

When taken as prescribed, codeine is generally safe and effective. However, when taken in higher doses or more frequently than prescribed, it can be dangerous and addictive. Codeine abuse can lead to physical and psychological dependence, as well as serious health complications.

The History Of Codeine Abuse In The USA

Codeine has been abused in the United States since the early 1900s. Over the years, the abuse of codeine has become increasingly common due to its availability and its relatively low cost. Codeine is often used in combination with other drugs and alcohol, which increases the risk of serious health complications.

In recent years, codeine has become more accessible due to the emergence of online pharmacies. These pharmacies allow people to purchase codeine without a prescription, which increases the risk of abuse. Furthermore, codeine is often found in cough syrups, which are available over the counter in many states. This makes it easier for people to access codeine without a prescription.

Statistics About Codeine Abuse In The USA.

Codeine abuse is a growing problem in the United States. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, over 11 million people in the US ages 12 and older used codeine for non-medical purposes in 2018. Furthermore, the number of emergency room visits due to codeine abuse has increased dramatically in recent years, from 15,000 visits in 2005 to over 24,000 visits in 2018.

Codeine abuse is also more common among certain groups of people. For example, codeine abuse is more common among men than women, and it is more common among younger people than older people. Additionally, codeine abuse is more common among people who have a history of substance abuse, as well as people with mental health disorders.

Causes Of Codeine Abuse In The USA

There are several factors that can contribute to codeine abuse in the United States. One of the most common causes of codeine abuse is the accessibility of the drug. Codeine is available in many forms, from prescription medications to cough syrups, which makes it easier for people to access the drug without a prescription.

Another factor that can contribute to codeine abuse is the presence of underlying mental health disorders or substance use disorders. People with mental health disorders or substance use disorders are more likely to abuse codeine, as they may be using the drug to self-medicate or as a way to cope with their symptoms. Additionally, people who have a family history of substance abuse may be more likely to abuse codeine.

Treatment Options for Codeine Abuse

If you or someone you know is struggling with codeine abuse, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Treatment for codeine abuse typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Medication can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while psychotherapy can help address the underlying causes of codeine abuse.

In addition to medication and psychotherapy, there are other treatment options available for codeine abuse. These include 12-step programs, support groups, and residential treatment programs. These programs can help provide support and guidance as you work to overcome your codeine abuse.

Signs And Symptoms Of Codeine Abuse

If you or someone you know is struggling with codeine abuse, there are several signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of a problem. These include:

• Taking codeine more often or in higher doses than prescribed
• Craving codeine or feeling a strong urge to use it
• Taking codeine in ways other than prescribed, such as snorting or injecting it
• Developing a tolerance to codeine
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using codeine
• Neglecting responsibilities in order to use codeine
• Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, and recovering from codeine

Prevention Of Codeine Abuse

The best way to prevent codeine abuse is to avoid using the drug altogether. If you are prescribed codeine, make sure to take it only as prescribed and never take more than the recommended dose. Additionally, if you or someone you know is struggling with codeine abuse, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.

It is also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of codeine abuse. If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these signs, it is important to seek help right away. Additionally, you can talk to your doctor about alternative pain management strategies that can help reduce the need for codeine.

Conclusion