What is Codeine?
Codeine is an opioid medication often prescribed to relieve mild to moderate pain, and it can also be used to treat coughs or diarrhoea. It’s commonly found in combination with other medications like paracetamol in products like co-codamol.
In the UK, codeine is available only by prescription due to its potential for misuse and dependence, though low doses are sold over the counter in pharmacies.
Despite its medical uses, prolonged use of codeine can lead to addiction, making careful monitoring essential.
Why do people mix codeine and alcohol?
The combination of codeine and alcohol, often called ‘Lean’ or ‘Purple Drank’, has become widely known, especially in connection with rappers and celebrities. Originally starting as a cough syrup mix, it’s now part of pop culture, often associated with a particular lifestyle and glamorised for its euphoric effects. But what does this mix actually do to the body that makes it so popular?
Both codeine and alcohol are depressants, which means they slow down the central nervous system. As an opioid, Codeine helps with relaxation and pain relief, while alcohol intensifies these effects, creating a deeper sense of calm and sedation. Together, they produce a heightened feeling of euphoria and numbness, which many people find appealing.
That said, combining these substances also comes with a high risk of dangerous side effects.
What are the dangers associated with mixing codeine and alcohol?
Mixing codeine and alcohol is risky due to their combined effects on the body, with both short-term and long-term dangers impacting physical and mental health. Here’s a breakdown of the risks.
Short-term dangers
- Respiratory depression: Both codeine and alcohol slow down breathing and together they can suppress the respiratory system to dangerous levels, leading to difficulty breathing or even stopping altogether.
- Severe drowsiness: This can lead to accidents or injuries, as coordination and reaction times are impaired.
- Nausea and vomiting: Both substances can irritate the stomach, increasing the likelihood of vomiting, which can be dangerous if it leads to choking.
- Blackouts and memory loss: The combination can cause significant memory gaps, leading to risky behaviour and decisions that are hard to recall later.
- Depression and anxiety: The combination can worsen mental health issues over time, leading to deeper depressive episodes or heightened anxiety when not using the substances.
- Cognitive decline: Prolonged use can impair memory, focus and cognitive functioning, making it difficult to concentrate or retain information over time.
- Emotional instability: Long-term abuse may result in mood swings, irritability or emotional outbursts, as the substances disrupt natural brain chemistry.
Long-term dangers
- Organ damage: Prolonged use of this combination can cause significant damage to the liver, kidneys and stomach. Alcohol is particularly hard on the liver and codeine can compound this strain, potentially leading to organ failure.
- Addiction: Both substances are highly addictive on their own, but when combined, the risk of developing a dependency on either or both increases significantly.
- Chronic respiratory issues: Repeatedly depressing the respiratory system can lead to long-term breathing problems and an increased risk of respiratory infections.
- Depression and anxiety: The combination can worsen mental health issues over time, leading to deeper depressive episodes or heightened anxiety when not using the substances.
- Cognitive decline: Prolonged use can impair memory, focus and cognitive functioning, making it difficult to concentrate or retain information over time.
- Emotional instability: Long-term abuse may result in mood swings, irritability or emotional outbursts, as the substances disrupt natural brain chemistry.
What should I do if I’ve already mixed codeine and alcohol?
If you’ve already mixed codeine and alcohol, whether in a small or large amount, it’s essential to take immediate steps to ensure your safety.
Here’s what you should do based on the amount you’ve consumed:
I’ve consumed a small amount of codeine and alcohol
If you’ve consumed a small amount of both codeine and alcohol, it’s still important to be cautious. Even in small doses, the combination can affect your body.
- Pay attention to any signs of dizziness, nausea, extreme drowsiness or trouble breathing.
- Sit down or lie in a safe, comfortable position to avoid falling or injury in case you feel dizzy or unsteady.
- Do not consume additional codeine or alcohol, as this can worsen the situation.
- It’s a good idea to have someone nearby who can monitor your condition in case symptoms worsen. Let them know what you’ve taken so they can help you if needed.
- If you feel like your breathing is slowing or becoming difficult or if you experience confusion or severe drowsiness, seek medical attention right away.
I’ve consumed a large amount of codeine and alcohol
If you’ve consumed a large amount of codeine and alcohol, the risk of serious side effects or overdose is much higher. You should take immediate action:
- Call emergency services (999 in the UK or 911 in the US) or go to the nearest A&E (emergency room).
- Inform them of the substances and amounts you’ve taken. If you’re with someone, have them relay this information.
I mix codeine and alcohol too often, what can I do?
If you’re mixing codeine and alcohol too often, it may be a sign that you’ve developed an addiction, perhaps to the codeine itself, alcohol or both. Addiction can creep up slowly, and it’s not always easy to recognise.
One of the tricky parts of addiction is that it clouds your judgement, making you feel like everything is under control when, in reality, things may not be. This is why getting help is so important.
If you’re unsure whether it’s time to seek support, remember that it’s always better to get help early rather than waiting until things spiral further. The sooner you reach out, the better your chances of overcoming the issue and regaining control of your life.
Oasis Runcorn offers a specialised programme designed to help individuals struggling with alcohol and codeine addiction. Our rehab programme begins with an initial assessment to understand your needs, followed by a medical detox to help manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
From there, therapy becomes the focus, including 1-on-1 counselling, group therapy and holistic treatments like yoga and art.
Aftercare is also a key part of our approach, ensuring continued support long after rehab is complete.
What’s next?
If you’re struggling with a codeine and alcohol addiction, don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out to Oasis Runcorn today. Our specialised programme offers the support, guidance and treatment you need to break free from addiction and reclaim your life. Take the first step by contacting us today to start your recovery journey.