Codeine Detox Guide: Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline

Codeine is a prescription opioid medication used to treat coughs and pain.^1,2,3 Like all opioids, codeine misuse can lead to addiction and withdrawal. Misuse includes:³

• Taking the drug without a prescription.
• Taking larger amounts, more often, or for longer than your doctor told you.
• Crushing and snorting tablets.
• Combining codeine with alcohol or other drugs.

For people with an OUD, it can be very hard to quit codeine and other opioids without support because of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms and cravings.⁵ Professional detox centers can help you get through codeine withdrawal by offering medical support, medicines to ease symptoms, and peer support.^5,6 And while detox services are an essential start to recovery, in order to maintain sobriety, most people require a more comprehensive treatment program.⁶

Codeine Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline

If you are addicted to codeine or other opioids and stop using it, or drastically reduce the dose, you may have codeine withdrawal symptoms. Common symptoms of codeine withdrawal include:^1-3,6-8

• Anxiety.
• Chills and goosebumps.
• Stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Depression.
• Body aches.
• Dilated (enlarged) pupils.
• Fast breathing or heart rate.
• Fever.
• Increased blood pressure.
• Involuntary leg movements.
• Irritability.
• Restlessness.
• Runny nose.
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia).
• Sweating.
• Watery eyes.
• Tremors.

Codeine withdrawal symptoms generally appear within 4 to 6 hours of the last dose, peak in intensity within 1 to 3 days, and slowly get better over a course of 5 to 7 days.^1,6,7

How to Cope With Codeine Withdrawal

Detox can help ease codeine withdrawal symptoms while keeping you as safe as possible.⁶ Starting a codeine detox program can be scary, especially if you don’t know what to expect. The main purpose of detox is to help you clear your system of codeine while getting supportive medical care, including any medicines needed to ease withdrawal symptoms.^5,6 Treatment staff are trained to screen for any other medical or mental health issues, to help identify any potential withdrawal complications, and manage all of them accordingly.^5,6

Throughout detox, a team works with you to ease your transition into some form of rehab. All treatment programs can offer education about addiction, help you learn about the factors causing your addiction, and help you develop effective relapse prevention skills to sustain long-term sobriety. The most common way to pay for these services is through insurance. Although many insurance providers offer coverage for these services, specific plans may vary. So be sure to either confirm your coverage benefits with either your insurance provider or the treatment center you plan on attending.

Finding Codeine Detox Centers

American Addiction Centers (AAC) has detox and addiction treatment centers across the nation. Our caring staff is trained in evidence-based treatments and can help you learn the skills you need to kick codeine for good. If you’re ready to seek treatment, start by checking your insurance coverage online or text our team for free for more information.