Opiate (or opioid) painkillers – such as codeine, morphine, methadone and heroin – have similar effects to opium. They stimulate the opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system, producing feelings of well-being, relaxation and sleepiness. Regular and prolonged usage, when the intention becomes not only to treat pain, can lead to an opiate addiction and an unpleasant opiate withdrawal.
Physical dependence is common in regular users. Opiate withdrawal symptoms can include tremors, anxiety, yawning, sweating, runny nose, sleep disturbance, nausea, goosebumps, restlessness, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and muscle spasms. You can find out more about codeine addiction and the side effects of a codeine withdrawal on our specific Codeine Addiction Help page.
If you, or someone you know, is abusing opiate painkillers, or are concerned about developing a dependency, you do not have to cope alone. Port of Call is here to support you and your family today. We know what a challenging and upsetting experience it can be to deal with such an addiction. But we can help you to navigate the right treatment at the right time and set you on a course to recovery.
We’re specialists in UK rehab options and can advise you on alcohol rehab in the North West, drug rehab in the North West and other addiction support services in the area.