What is Codeine and how is it used?
Codeine is a member of the drug class opiates.
Opiates include all naturally occurring drugs
with morphine-like effects such as codeine
and all semi and fully synthetic drugs with
morphine-like effects such as heroin and
meperidine (Demerol).
Codeine was first discovered as a natural
constituent of opium in very small concentrations,
in the range of 0.7% - 2.5% by weight. Most
codeine found in pharmaceutical products
today is synthetically produced via the methylation
of morphine.
Codeine is normally administered:
- orally
- subcutaneously
- intramuscularly
- rectally
Codeine cannot be safely administered
by intravenously as it may result in
pulmonary oedema, facial swelling,
dangerous release of histamines, and
various cardiovascular effects.
It cannot be administered intranasally
(snorting). Codeine free base can be
smoked on the aluminum foil ("chasing
the dragon") similarly to smoking heroin.
What are some of the common effects
of Codeine addiction
Codeine is absorbed quickly from the
GI tract and it's first pass through
the liver results in very little loss
of the drug. This contrasts with morphine
in which over 90% of the drug is metabolized
in the first pass through the liver
resulting in a considerable loss of
potency when administered orally.
Narcotics induce an "opioid analgesia" by
altering the perception of pain at
the spinal cord and brain. They also
affect emotional responses to pain.
Opioids have stimulating effects as
well because they block inhibitory
neurotransmitters. Repeated use of
these drugs can cause long-term changes
in the way the nervous system functions
and incite:
- stomach bleeding
- kidney damage
- liver damage
- "itchies"
- constipation
- nausea
- hangover
- tiny pupils
- blurred vision
- poor night vision
- impair driving ability
- lowered heart rate, blood pressure and
breathing
- disorientation
- convulsions
- hallucinations
- depression
- sexual problems
- agitation
- tremors
- seizures
Codeine symptoms and side effects
of withdrawl from codeine
The worst symptoms pass within a few
days, but it can take months to feel
normal.
- runny nose
- sweating
- muscle twitching
- muscle pain
- headaches
- irregular heartbeat
- nausea and vomiting
- high blood pressure
- fever
- insomnia
- dehydration
- yawning
- weakness
- stomach cramps
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