How Harmful is Tylenol with Codeine: Substance Abuse

Tylenol is one of the most well-known brands of acetaminophen, a common medication used to treat fevers and mild to moderate pain. However, for those who require stronger pain medication, Tylenol with codeine is available by prescription.

While this combination offers legitimate clinical applications, it may be habit-forming, especially when taken for prolonged periods. There are also concerns among those with a history of substance abuse.

This combination can be life-threatening in certain cases, particularly within the first 24 to 72 hours after beginning treatment — or when a dose is increased.

If you’re wondering how harmful this combination is and whether it’s contributing to potential misuse, this guide tells all.

Tylenol with codeine, commonly referred to as Tylenol® #3, is a drug often prescribed after minor surgery. For example, a dental procedure.

This medication can help provide significant pain relief, but several potential side effects exist. For example, one study focused on using Tylenol with codeine following childbirth, compared to ibuprofen. More of those in the Tylenol with codeine group experienced side effects — 71.7% of patients vs. 52.4%.

Common symptoms included the following:

The most serious potential effect is life-threatening respiratory depression. This risk sharply increases among those taking opioids with benzodiazepines or another central nervous system (CNS) depressant, including alcohol. If you are combining various substances of abuse and are struggling to control use, you must seek help.

One of the most significant concerns is the risk of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to potential overdose or death. Addiction can result if you take this drug more frequently than prescribed, at higher doses, or take it from someone else’s prescription. Overdoses can result, either on purpose or by accident.

Combining prescription drugs with other substances is strongly discouraged, especially when those substances depress the central nervous system. One of the most common substances taken with Tylenol #3 is alcohol. Some individuals don’t realize the risks involved, as alcohol is a substance accepted by society. Drug interactions can be significant and catch unexpecting users off-guard. This situation can lead to hospitalization.

Others combine these substances based on their history of drug use. They take alcohol, codeine, and other substances together to enhance the intoxicating effects. The consequences can be devastating. Consuming alcohol while taking prescription opiates, including Tylenol with codeine, can result in slowed breathing, lowered pulse, a drop in blood pressure, unconsciousness, coma, and potential death. It is also illegal to use prescription drugs not prescribed to you. So, convictions could result under select circumstances.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began restricting the use of codeine medicines in children in 2013. By 2017, further action was taken to limit use among children and young adults. Rising concerns surrounding the risks associated with slowed breathing and potential death, particularly among those 12 years of age and younger, resulted in severe warnings. For example, a new warning was issued against the use of codeine among individuals aged 12 to 18 who are overweight, have sleep apnea, have lung disease, or any other condition that affects breathing.

Alongside this restriction, the FDA also recommended against the use of codeine in breastfeeding mothers due to possible harm to their infants. Research shows that maternal use of oral narcotics, such as codeine, can lead to infant drowsiness and severe central nervous system depression. Newborns are susceptible to even the smallest doses.

The development and progression of addiction differ from one individual to the next. However, this condition is caused by manifestations of brain changes among those who chronically abuse opioids, such as codeine. While the abnormalities that contribute to dependence can resolve after detoxification, addiction is far more complex. The abnormalities contributing to addiction can be long-lasting, often requiring professional intervention.

It is not uncommon for individuals to relapse months or even years after they are no longer opioid dependent. Many factors are involved, including individual and environmental — and while many use this drug because of the potential euphoric high, opioid withdrawal is one of the powerful factors that drive addiction.

When withdrawing from codeine, users often experience some or all of the following:

Remember, codeine is prescribed for short-term use. It is not intended for chronic use. If the withdrawal effects of Tylenol with codeine prevent you from quitting, it’s time to seek the support of a professional treatment center.

Drugs like Tylenol with codeine can lead to a cycle of abuse for anyone. Many individuals take their prescriptions as directed but then lose control over their use. This cycle can occur among those with a history of substance abuse and those without a history. Some are predisposed to addiction because of genetics — while others are influenced by their environment. Some users are living with co-occurring disorders, which can make treatment a complex process. The journey is truly individualized, requiring structure and clinical care.

Regardless of your circumstances, a wide range of treatment options are available. The key is to partner with a detoxification and treatment center that provides customized, evidence-based support.

For most, the process will begin with a detox program. The level of holistic care can make the difference between overcoming a codeine dependence. Detoxing in a supervised, professional environment helps ensure the safest, most comfortable experience. Once your body has eliminated all traces of Tylenol with codeine, you will begin either an intensive outpatient or residential inpatient program. The latter is ideal when aiming to overcome severe addictions or co-occurring disorders. In this case, you’ll have access to 24-hour care, including a range of services and treatment options.

Taking the next crucial step can be overwhelming. Transformation Treatment Center goes the extra mile to ensure your recovery experience is as supportive, safe, and comfortable as possible. At Transformations, we understand the value of individualized treatment, offering a wide spectrum of treatment options. No two people are identical, so would their treatment plans be the same?

Whether you are struggling with codeine addiction, are combining substances, have concerns about your mental health, have experienced trauma, or all of the above, Transformations Treatment Center can help you every step. Our approach, comprehensive treatment programs, and highly trained team will allow you to achieve your goals today, tomorrow, and for years to come. However, you need to take the first step.