Painkiller Addiction
First4Rehab offers a range of treatment options for painkiller addiction, the most common being a residential rehab programme at a specialist addiction clinic. Our recommendation to help beat painkiller addiction is a minimum stay of four weeks; dependent on the individual's personal circumstances (some people will need a longer-term programme if they have been abusing large quantities of painkillers over a considerable length of time).
Over the counter painkillers are some of the most widely abused substances, the majority being Codeine and Ibuprofen based products. While many people view these drugs as being less potent than street drugs, or those on prescription; side-effects, when taken in large doses can be life threatening. The number of people dependent on over the counter painkillers is rising rapidly, with an estimated 30,000 in the UK being addicted to Codeine alone. Women are more at risk of developing an addiction as they are most likely to buy painkillers for period pains and stress related disorders. |
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Codeine
Codeine is an analgesic which is found in the opium plant. It is a narcotic whose effects, though less potent, are similar to morphine. It can be found in many pharmaceutical products and is most commonly taken orally in either tablet or capsule form. It is primarily used for the relief of mild to moderate pain, i.e. headaches, surgical pain, migraine, back pain etc. It is also available as a syrup and is used as a cough suppressant. When taken exactly as prescribed, it can be used to effectively manage pain over a short period of time.
Long-term use (three weeks or more) can lead to a physical dependency and withdrawal symptoms can occur if its use is reduced or eliminated abruptly. Withdrawal effects from these painkillers can be extremely unpleasant, and side-effects can include:
- Muscle pain
- Fever
- Insomnia
- Irregular heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Stomach cramps
- Liver damage (particularly if used with alcohol)
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen belongs to a group of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. It is commonly used for the relief of arthritis and fever, and is usually taken in tablet form; however, it can also be used topically in a gel form which is absorbed through the skin. It should only be used on a short-term basis to relieve severe pain as it can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Common brand names include Nurofen Plus, Advil, Motrin and Brufen.
Long-term use of this painkiller can lead to a physical dependency and side-effects can include some or all of the following:
- Chest pain and shortness of breath
- Nausea, stomach pain and loss of appetite
- Rapid weight gain
- Vomiting and coughing up blood
- Bruising easily
- Seizures
Overdosing can lead to renal failure, coma, and even death.
For further information regarding treatment for painkiller addiction, please feel free to contact one of our First4Rehab advisors. We are available on 0845 555 8822, 07875 154177 or 0044 (0) 20 7193 4906. Alternatively you can email us at advice@first4rehab.com
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