Codeine is an opioid used to treat mild to moderately severe pain. It is also used in some cough syrups to reduce coughing. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain sensation.

Codeine detoxification usually involves a medically supervised tapering-off process. Withdrawal can include symptoms like nausea, muscle aches, and mood swings.  We usually use a combination of buprenorphine (suboxone) and other comfort medications to help manage the detox symptoms of Codeine dependency.

Long-term use can lead to opioid use disorder, depression, and anxiety, especially during withdrawal periods.

Codeine is often used with other depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines, increasing the risk of respiratory depression and overdose.