Day 18 cold turkey from codeine and starting to feel like myself

Well done keep going and remember take each day at a time I watched my brother go throu addiction and rehab the person he become was an amazing thing to watch keep going : ))

I Have been a slave to Opiates now for many years, I’ve quit and relapsed so many times now over the last decade that I’ve lost count, a very emotional issue that occured in my life nearly 3 years ago now, got me back onto this drug. I was taking 480mg codeine a day, and on top of that towards the end I was taking the 480mg codeine plus 300mg dihydrocodeine a day.This was costing me upwards of £500 per month, and my usage has started showing signs in my job as a medical professional. They’ve noticed how tired and pale I always look, and are now concerned about my wellbeing. I fobbed it off as for the last 2 years I’ve been working 2 jobs and it’s just the tiredness etc.

I have however seen this as a sign that i need to sort this out because I’ve been taking it for so long now I’ve been spending all my spare time in bed, i no longer see my son, and I’ve blocked all contact with all my family, and just spend all day taking these pills, before long if I don’t do something I’m gunna end up on heroin and to that is somewhere I dont want to be.

I’ve tried to taper down I think. On day 4 now and I’m down to just 240mg codeine a day but I feel I’m tapering too fast as I feel absolutely awful, shivering, burning up and with absoloutely no energy or motivation to do anything. I’ve still got 2 jobs to work, and don’t feel like I can pull thru it. I’ve also started taking an anti depressant, a week in now too, and I do take slow release multi vits, and 1000mg vit c slow release supplement. I’m not really sure if they are helping. I’m just waiting on the terrible loose bowels to pop there head through the door as I know from previous quit attempts this is to be expected.

I’m determined to quit again but just wanted to tell my story, and believe me when you are past the worst of it you will feel like you are full of life and energy. Unfortunately as with my story I last lasted 5 weeks b4 relapsing and as mentioned this is mostly to do with a break up with my partner , they felt like the longest 5 weeks of my life, but with help and support you can surpass that and go on to live a much improved life. I’ve waffled on a bit here but it’s probably because i don’t really feel like there is any1 else to talk to about this atm. But best of luck to all those that are trying to rid themselves of this horrible drug and to better there lives.

Those interested in tapering plans my Dr once told me that a 30mg decrease per week is best, and ofc drinking plenty of water to.stay hydrated etc.

Thanx for the reply, as luck would have it, I got down to 120mg a day, and I came down with the dreaded covid 19. Because of that I decided to stick at that amount until I overcome the disease. I still have bad cough and chesty lungs, but I am pleased to say that as of today I am almost 4 days completely clean.

It’s been a rollercoaster of a month and the last few days have been hard, I’ve been so tempted to just take one more bump, for old times sake etc etc. But I’m strong minded and determine d this time to not fall victim to the drug anymore. Mentally I’m feeling a bit more positive, still lethargic, and still a little upset in the stomach dept.but that could just be remnants of the Covid 19 virus still in my system. Either way, 4 days and counting,

and getting stronger and healthier every day, wish me luck.

Oh and as for the anti depressants, I too haven’t finished the course, I know they do help, but I want my body to be completely clean of all drugs, so I decided to take the longer route. I will no doubtedly take a lot longer to heal, as I think the mental part is going to be more difficult than the physical. But in terms of being completely non-drug reliant, this I believe to be the best course of action for myself. Every 1 is different tho. I hope that one day I too can make it to 20 months, and I hope to spend or try and spend a lot more time and money on my 2 kids, instead of drugs.

Well done!!! Keep going!!!

I’m on day 8 after 20 years of codeine , I took 30g/ 500everssant with fizzy water about 15 times a day … prescribed from doctor … you can buy 8g/500 in UK so I dropped to them for 2 weeks then stopped they 2 weeks were torture , I’m 8 days without any but so tired no motivation … how long it last ?

Hi what you wrote gives me hope thank you & glad your doing so well.

Iv been weaning my self of for five months now & I still feel really bad like you said unmotivated & drained of Enagey. But I’m taking 80% less now & every hour of every day I still want more but I’m staying strong & resisting. Do you have any advise on how to stop completely? I just can’t seem to get there.

Hello im eva , im new here im day 2 of stopping codeine that i was taking after a 8 week stay in hospital , i was on oxycodne , gabapentin and codeine . I bust my pelvis . I have the shakes the cold extremities , anxiety , stomach problems , loss of appetite , does anyone know the timeline ? Is it 72 hours … i cant continue with these anxiety attacks and headfog, i cant tolerate noise and its not fair on my children .

Im just scared i wont lie … i feel like a monster to my kids and the headfog is doing me in .. x

Can I ask a question i have been taking solphadine max for about 3 4 months I usually take about 20×12.5mg a day it dont seem alot but in 1 go I want to get off them everytime I try my belly hurts so much and have a yellow runny stool sorry for the detail and then my body hurts so much feel like I can’t carry on what can I do to help me get off these horrible things. Would it be good to try just take 2 when I start feeling the pain in my body and toilet troubles. Im tired of going out with my family knowing if I havnt had them then I am going start needing toilet then there is the chronic pains. I want to stop so much will lower dosage help me conqure these feelings

Thank you dadict, im feeling a lot healthier today , sunshine is the best mood stabiliser . I will continue to go out with kids and enjoy them . Dopomine is possibly stabilising now i think as my mind a bit clearer . I will never take several opiate painkillers again i hope .. my bust pelvis is ok without any . C

Hi everyone, So I have a strange one, basically i’m in the military and when I went out on tour my back went on me. So MRI scan, I found out that I ruptured a disc due to rapid weight loss in a foriegn country along with the heat, running and doing the job I was given.

So rehab course for movement to get back at it blah,blah. Anyway, for the pain I was given naproxen, that messed my inside up and ended up with fissure and piles to which after 2 and a half years are now finally sorted recently (had proceedure 5 weeks ago). After the naproxen I was given codeine and it took the pain away. Made it painful to go toilet because of the dosage but it was better than the back pain I had. So been taking it on and off for over 3 years here and there when i’ve had a back problems or bad abdomen pain (all perscribed constantly by a military doctor).

So I believe my body has become addicted to it, without me realising mentally in the slightest. I just thought i’ve been feeling like crap all the time and depressed when i’ve not had pain because i’m still stuck in a rutt and couldn’t work out due to my fissures getting worse when I exercised.

I’ve recently been reading and all the symptoms add up to codeine addiction on the body. Now it’s strange, I think i’ve been that mentally aware to how addictive the drug is, i’ve never gotten mentally addicted to it. In fact I can’t stand it, I don’t like the feeling of it and never really have done. So i’m in it at sqaure one because I took some recently because i thought i wonder if its the codeine, if i take some now and feel better tomorrow then I know its that and I can knock it on the head.

Highest I’ve gone, which to be honest isn’t as much as you guys/ladies at 30/500mg in with paracetamol 12 times a day for about 2-4 weeks (3 years ago at peak back pain). I had recently been thinking I always feel like crap and looked online because I had a thought that codeine is addictive for a reason, so I wonder if my body is having withdrawal symptoms on the drug. I will keep people updated on my cold turkey as of today if people ask 🙂 and if and when this damn depression and anxiety dies out.

I don’t feel I can perform my job to a high standard that I should be doing even though i’m been told my work (non physical at the moment) is brilliant. I just don’t want to leave the accommodation or even interact with my partner or much to the kids, which I love to bits but I can’t bring myself around to be a good dad at the moment.

I’m just constantly thinking about myself not sleeping and how bad I feel all the time. Having no mental addiction to it but a phsyical addiction i’m finding very strange to deal with. But I find it easy not to take them now I have my mind set that its them causing all this negativity in and around my life. The side effects are very real on the body though.

Anyway, heres to day one and thanks for reading my story, apologise for the length.

Well I was doing quite well in coming off codeine around 2 months ago then i relapsed. Im now on day 6 of second attempt of being off codeine and the withdrawl seems to be worse than the first.

Chronic headache. Lack of energy. Extreme tiredness. Nightmares and restless nights, fear when waking up in the morning, fear of the day ahead, aches and pains in joints, like a crazy heat feeling inside lower stomach and into back, anxiety through the roof. Im so annoyed with myself that im having to do this again. I feel so desperate and lost and cant face the day. I managed to get out yesterday on bicycle and keep positive but last night my blood pressure went through the roof and i think i was having a panic attack.

Im assuming that im going to have these physical symptoms for a couple of weeks, can anybody reassure me that this is all normal. I had been doing cocodomol 30mg on and off for her a year, prescribed for nerve pain. I think im going to have a long haul getting off this devil drug. Thanks all.

I’m coming of cocodamole Iv been on it for ten years. I’m still taking a third of what I used to take but like you I have lots of aches & pains witch are very concerneing. It is hard & I think a long proses but you’ll get there your doing better than me so your strong keep being strong. Good luck it’s hard to fined people who understand.

Hi, I’m glad i seen this post because i need some courage. Long story short i started with a codeine addiction when i was around 17 years old due to some bad things that happened in my life anyway i battled through it with the help of drug and alcohol service and took bupanorphine. A few years down the line i relapsed again and came off with help from the gp and came off really quick because i found out i was pregnant anyway i sailed through pregnancy and 10 months of breastfeeding without any cravings i think it was down to the fact that i knew i needed to protect my baby. Anyway the beginning of this year I’d had another baby 6 days before Christmas and it ended up a emergency c-section i was ok while i was in hospital for 4 days and then i got the Christmas day and boxing day rush out the way and then the pain hit so i started taking nurofen plus this was one of my issues i had before when the gp wouldn’t give me anything for pain I’d buy these… the first few weeks i stuck to 2 4 time a day then i escalated quickly to the point i was taking 6 at each time and could go through 32 a day it was costing me £10 a day so like £300 a month sometimes more because I’d buy them online and pay for next day delivery, we are getting married this coming august so I’ve been spending all my wedding fund too! I tried tapering with the gp but they only did 4 15mg codeine phosphate a day for a week then 3 then 2 weeks and well is wasn’t working i was withdrawing badly so i started buying more nurofen to top myself up. I’m on day 2 of going cold turkey and i had to tell my partner everything last night because i needed his support and to help with our children because the way i feel I can’t do much let alone get them all ready in the morning to take my eldest to school so he’s taken a few days off. My problem is that i have a physiological problem more than a addiction it always comes down to my mental health when my mental healths great I don’t even think about it then when my mental health gets bad it’s the my coping method. Lockdown hasn’t helped my mental health, then having a baby the day we went back into another lockdown so I’ve had no supporting network, my mums dying of cancer so I’m really struggling this time round and unsure how I’m going to cope. I’m trying to pretend to my children that I’m ok but they are noticing that I’m not because I’m not interacting with them like i did it was weird because it was like the codeine was giving me this massive burst of energy so i could get most things done. It’s just all a mess 😩. I don’t remember well how long it will take for the symptoms to die down can someone give me some sort of rough idea? Well done to all of you who’s completed it and done so well and the ones who haven’t got there yet hang in there! you are never alone

Hey, im looking to get of co codamol 30/500. I started taking these 7 years ago when i had my son and damaged my back. My lower back disc is wearing away and suffer from chronic migraines. I only take 6 tablets a day im not sure if this is an addiction but i feel as im used to them it would be worrying to stop. My gp isnt helpful. Any suggestions?

Hi LMA10

I can’t relate to codeine making my anxiety worse while i was on it but it definitely stopped “fixing” all my problems, like anxiety and depression. I can only imagine how bad your anxiety is now after 5 days no codeine too.

I mentioned in an earlier post that i was prescribed propranolol and it’s been helpful for exactly what you’re describing – overwhelming fear and anxiety, shaking, palpitations, shortness of breath etc. It’s not perfect and won’t magic you back to health but it’s put a limit on how much my body can go through (no freezing or panic attacks since i started it).

Please be kind to yourself, you’re doing so well. Keep posting here. I found 5 days the hardest. They say 3 days but i gave in at 5 days twice. Try and get as much rest as you can and stay hydrated.

Hi, I’ve never done anything like this either..

I’m addicted to codeine, which took me a long time to admit. Even now I debate it with myself. I’ve dabbled in and out of NA but with COVID that’s been a no go.

I can go a really long time without it even months but I somehow always fall back into it. The only problem is, you can’t buy codeine over the counter. Only cocodamol and I know with the paracetamol it will eventually do some damage.

I can’t speak to anyone about it because the look of disappointment on their faces makes me want to do it even more!

I’m pleased to hear your feeling better.

It just seems like a never ending cycle

Hi. I wonder how people are getting on here. I’ve been inadvertently been taking codeine for about 6 years regularly. Upto 360mg daily. I have only taken a week or so off by accident when I have been on holidays et and have felt awful. It didn’t occur to me at first that it was due to the codeine. I’ve currently reduced to 60mg daily for last few days and had been tapering down. its is difficult.

I’ve been very impressed by people on here that have done cold turkey for weeks.

Hi ,firstly – well done !! I have been addicted to codeine for about 7 -8 years .Managed to come off it once ( cold Turkey ) but only lasted 2 months .I have decided to try again ,this time for good .I have been taking massive amounts ,a month’s worth would be gone within a week and then going different chemists to buy more . I can’t live like this anymore . I have taken the last dose 24 hrs ago and withdrawals are bad already 😔 Unfortunately my mental health is not the best at the moment ,suffer depression and anxiety and am a bit worried that I won’t make it this time . I have to though !! It’s ruining my life . Just need someone to know what I’m going through as there are only 2 people in my life who know about it. I hope in few weeks time I’ll be able to post similar message as you to people out there who struggle with addictions . These meds should not be prescribed this easily . All the best for you and everyone else who’s trying to come off drugs xx

That’s great well done hope I can get there one day your so strong 💪

Hi

I’ve just joined this evening my husband has after a lot of lies he has a codeine addiction taking 10tablets a day for over 2yrs after alot of tears and talking he says he wants to quit cold turkey without and help from gp I’m petrified for him and our young family I suspected for a long time as he always tired uninterested in anything How can I help him?

I asked my GP for stronger pain killers and he has put me on Tramadol.The Dihydrocodeine I was taking has been removed from my repeat meds order list,so I am withdrawing by default.

I have no idea how things will go as I have had no tapering of the dihydrocodeine,I have tried to give it up countless times but the awful withdrawal symptoms drive me back.Hopefully the Tramadol will get me through.I know its addictive,but everything I have read says its not as addictive as codeine.

I am shit scared of how this is going to go.This is day one and so far so good,Has anyone else used Tramadol to get off codeine ?

I need all the help I can get, and you seem to be a very supportive bunch !

I asked my GP for stronger pain killers and he has put me on Tramadol.The Dihydrocodeine I was taking has been removed from my repeat meds order list,so I am withdrawing by default.

I have no idea how things will go as I have had no tapering of the dihydrocodeine,I have tried to give it up countless times but the awful withdrawal symptoms drive me back.Hopefully the Tramadol will get me through.I know its addictive,but everything I have read says its not as addictive as codeine.

I am shit scared of how this is going to go.This is day one and so far so good,Has anyone else used Tramadol to get off codeine ?

I need all the help I can get, and you seem to be a very supportive bunch !

I do agree with you,and I have found myself in this position by default.I asked my GP for stronger pain relief(Just had a knee replacement) and he gave me Tramadol in place of the Dihydrocodeine I had been using.I have had no tapering of the codeine. I am just hoping with all my might that the Tramadol will take care of the withdrawal from the codeine.If/when I am over this enforced cold turkey I shall then be tapering the Tramadol.

I have tried to quit the Dihydrocodeine many times and have failed miserably so hopefully the Tramadol will help me manage the dreadful withdrawal from the codeine.I must admit I am terrified right now,as past exoerience tells me that the withdrwal is dreadful.

Thankyou for your kind words of support.

Hi ,

My son is addicted to lean & he’s been taking high amounts , he now told me he’s weaning himself of it without any medical advice, I’m terrified don’t know how to get him help as it’s very difficult as he won’t ask for medical help . He’s very depressed and suicidal at times . Any advice would be appreciated

Hi, I’m a mum of three n this is my second relapse…. I’m determined to do it this time because I don’t want to waste money anymore n I was taking two bottles of rikodeine a day since they took tablets off the counter, I’m on day 5 but I feel so useless I don’t want to do anything but sit on the couch but now that’s annoying me so I’m just chain smoking and sulking n my house is a mess. I haven’t spoken to anyone I’ve just done it on my own but I need some energy!!! Is there anything to possibly do to boost motivation? Every time I go back to it it’s cuz I can’t stand being a lazy lump n I just want to feel full of beans again, I can’t work out or do anything because I feel totally weak. I need some advice please it’s pay day tomorrow I don’t want to be tempted!!!

Thanks for your kind words Maggie 37.The weekend was horrendous for me.The Tramadol made me very ill, I felt so sick (Even with my usual cyclizine) and pretty ill.Today I have spoken with my GP,and he agreed that the codeine is my best option right now.However my dose has been reduced by 2 tablets a day .I am trying to see this as a good thing as ultimately I do not want to take it for ever.

How long does it take for your body to adjust to Tramadol ? I am thinking that maybe I did not stick with it long enough.My prescription was for 2 capsule (50mg) and when.I took 2 for my first dose…huge mistake ! Next day I tried taking just 1 capsule but I still felt rough.Maybe I would have been better taking it before bed ? Any advice ? I still have almost a full pack of the Tramadol and am in 2 minds as to whether to give it another go.

Best wishes to you.

Thanks for your kind words Maggie 37.The weekend was horrendous for me.The Tramadol made me very ill, I felt so sick (Even with my usual cyclizine) and pretty ill.Today I have spoken with my GP,and he agreed that the codeine is my best option right now.However my dose has been reduced by 2 tablets a day .I am trying to see this as a good thing as ultimately I do not want to take it for ever.

How long does it take for your body to adjust to Tramadol ? I am thinking that maybe I did not stick with it long enough.My prescription was for 2 capsule (50mg) and when.I took 2 for my first dose…huge mistake ! Next day I tried taking just 1 capsule but I still felt rough.Maybe I would have been better taking it before bed ? Any advice ? I still have almost a full pack of the Tramadol and am in 2 minds as to whether to give it another go.

Best wishes to you.

Hi,

How is everyone getting on?

I am 5 days clean now, physical withdrawals have eased, just waiting for the depression and anxiety to start which I’m hoping they don’t,

I have been taking zapains for about 5 years, but the last 12 months I have been taking around 30 a day. I was waking up and taking 9 of them to kick start of the day. constantly trying to hide everything from my partner, i don’t have the courage to tell her as we have just had a baby and i don’t think she needs the stress. I did finally manage to get some sleep last night for the first time in 4 days. just powering on, reading some of the comments have helped. due to the fact people are over coming this devil drug

7 days ,wow .you have gone through the worst I think .it’ll only get easier now . My partner takes codeine for his knees and it’s always within my eyesight but surprisingly it doesn’t bother me at all . I do crave the feeling I was getting from them but I don’t miss the person I was when I was taking them .I even dreamt few times about finding some in my purse and taking the lot for old times sake. Was glad when I woke up to realising it was just a dream . Once your brain learns how to feel and function without them ,you will never want to get back on them .I’ve been a grumpy and sad person for 8 years and it’s time to get my life back . And you’re right ,it’s too easy to get them nowadays .All the best to you ,keep going .It’ll be easier every day

Hey guys wanted to say well done. So glad this post is alive and well it saved my life a year and a bit ago

Hi , I just wanted to introduce myself as Sophia . I am sorry to intrude on your privacy .I am trying to build an app that would hopefully support those suffering from any addiction and/or homelessness to find support from others going through the same thing , without stigma and judgement .

A platform with videos and articles on : health and wellbeing, lifestyles tips ( diet, sleep & exercise) , money management and drug treatment advice, mental health tips, etc to help you when trying to transition back into normal life.

A platform where you can access a LiveChat similar to FB messenger to safely discuss sensitive topics with other members/ health assistants/ advisors instantly

A platform to share and compare experiences with others along the sobriety journey, and read and prepare for hat to expect at different stages.

As well as many more features .

I would love if any of you , would join in assisting me to gain insight in what is truly needed by those trying to recover, if this is something you would be comfortable with , please let me know and I will drop the link to confidential and quick survey. I hope you are not offended by this post and will be happy to delete if so . Thank you in advance x

Hi everyone. Ive been addicted to Paramol which is dihydracodiene and paracetamol bought over the counter for 8yrs now. Tried many times to stop but the withdrawals are bad. So i took the plunge once again 4 days ago, taking ibuprofen for the pain religiously every 4hrs, sleepless nights, sweats, body aches are extreme but already i have more energy and aches have subsided, determined to do this for my kids and myself. Im hoping for light at the end of the tunnel very soon!

Thanks dodo, joined yesterday and just reading through people’s posts is giving me some hope. No one close to me knows about my addiction and it feels good to get it out there even if it is just over the internet. Ive had a hard day today, stomach cramps are back and head fog not to mention blocked nose, luckily the body aches are gone. Determined to keep going, even walked past a pharmacy today and felt good not stopping for some paramol, had a little smile to myself, little things to some are huge to us x

Hi, I hope it’s ok to come on here and get some encouragement and advice. Ye are all so amazing! I’m off codeine 4 days( taking it for 6 years) and the restless legs are driving me crazy. Is there anything that helps with this? I have no urge to take any codeine. I’m adamant I’m done with it. But the restless legs are making sleep impossible!

Hi RachBN. Well done for getting this far, first week is the hardest! Im not sure what others have been doing but on the day i decided to stop codeine i started to take ibuprofen every 4 hours religiously, not good for the stomach but my god it helped alot with aches, headaches etc. I done this for a week and I can honestly say its been the easiest attempt to get clean from it, im now on day 11. x

Thanks for the support to ye both.Dadict 2 years 7 months is amazing!! Cherron22 wow day 11 seems so far away when your on day 4. Well done!! Do you feel better on day 11? Have you any physical symptoms left? Thanks for replying. Knowing other people are doing the same is such a comfort x

Hi Maggie, I was reading your previous posts and you’ve done so well. I hope I can say the same down the road. It just feels never ending at the moment. You want to feel ‘normal’ again but I know that feeling isn’t normal. The time is right for me. But god it’s hard. Thanks for the advice and well wishes. Xx

When you first pick it up it will feel REALLY heavy and you will not believe you can bear the weight of it,Just remember that the weight of the blanket is distributed over a large area.I would not dare put it in the washing machine as I reckon it would put paid to the machine.I have put mine in a quilt cover in an efoort to keep it clean.

Stay strong.

RachBN I honestly feel like a new person, stood ironing at 19.45 with loads of energy, usually id be laid up on the settee waiting for bed time! You can do this, give it a few more days and it will get better. Xx

Hi all, I’ve been reading through your thread and just wanted to congratulate you all . I realise every day is a battle for you guys and I admire you for your strength and determination 💪

My son is in early recovery from alcohol and cocaine addictions so I know how hard it is for you.

Keep on doin what you’re doin!

Stay strong 💪

Lx ❤

Thanks Maggie. I read in one of your previous posts to listen to music and it’s been a life saver thank you. It definitely gives you a bit more energy. My energy is probably the worst thing today so I need it! Everything else has started to wane thankfully for the moment. Again, thank you for checking back into this forum to help other people. It’s so helpful to hear from someone who just ‘gets it’!

Hi, i have been taking codein for 4 years now. I was taking around 120 pills a week of codein phosphate and solpadein once i ran out. Iv cut down to around 50 over the last couple months and i have now selected the day to quit cold turkey. Having booked 2 weeks off work to help with the first 2 weeks along with the support of my family i feel i am ready. After searching for a long time for help seeing this post this evening has put a smile on my face.! I am looking forward to having my life back and not having my whole life controlled by the drug. Its been a part of me for years now and i am sick of it. It wont be easy but thinking about the light at the end of the tunnell makes it worth it. I have a beautiful life with my future wife and 4 children so its time to say goodbye to this nasty addiction/habit as i like to call it.

Well done to you and i hope your are doing well. Hope you get to read this.

Thankyou

Hi Maggie, thank you so much. Yes I feel a lot better today. Yesterday was tough, I’m so grateful to you for getting me through it. I feel more myself today as I had a better night sleep. I have a little more energy this morning too so that’s positive! On day 9 today and determined to keep going. The restless legs is still there but not as bad. Thanks for checking in. It makes all the difference. xx

Hi everyone, I’ve been getting a few emails to say people are posting on this thread. I hope everyone’s ok and well done to everyone 👍. Unfortunately for me I’ve relapsed 😢 my gp stupidly prescribed me Zapains for pain due to me genuinely being in pain due to endometriosis flare up but it escalated quickly where I’ve been mixing zapains with nurofen plus so I’ve been taking like 100mg at one time, I’m so annoyed with myself but also really struggling mentally, my mum is near to end of life due to cancer so that’s causing my mental health huge issues at the moment and my OH isn’t being very supportive so i have nowhere to turn too so I thought I’d post here again, I’m not sure if I’m ready mentally just yet to go cold turkey again but i know I can’t carry on like this anymore I’ve become a really shit person and really unhappy one too, I’ve been on and off for years and a few years ago someone from the mental health team said it was down to PTSD and that i find something to help me cope when my MH is bad but I’ve just never found a replacement coping method, and the other problem i have is i am actually in pain and because my bodys been use to strong things nothing really works so then i have to suffer , i have called my health visitor and asked her to make me a referral to the mental health team though so i do feel like I’ve done the first step.

Hi Steph, you’ve done amazing with tapering down. That takes so much self control! I think if you continue tapering the way you are, you shouldn’t get withdrawals to be honest. It’s hard when no one knows about what your going through but I get it’s hard to tell people. Anytime you want to chat, talk to us. We’ll help you along xx

Hi, brilliant to read everybody’s strength. Day 1 here after a long taper. Family have to come first so sorting myself out. Thanks for previous messages.

Hello everyone! I’ve been reading through all your messages and it’s given me some motivation, just what I needed today. Ive been a slave to codeine for 5 or 6 years. Every time I told myself I would come off them I would always start tomorrow and tomorrow never came. For most of the time I stuck to the prescribed amount until the last year where I was taking 24 per day. I was never strong enough to come off them, I’d always choose them until a couple of weeks ago when I found out I was pregnant with my 3rd child (not planned). I feel like this baby was sent to save me. I would of never of had the strength to start day 1 if it wasn’t for this little growing baby of mine. I’m currently on day 5 and I feel awful. Restless legs, headache, body aches, feeling sick and no energy at all. The first 3 days I spent on the sofa. On the 4th day I managed to walk to my mums and lay on her sofa. Today which is day 5 I’ve managed to watch my kids at swimming and do a bit of cleaning, also managed to do my hair 😀 I’ve noticed the days get slightly better after day 3. The restless legs are the worst, csnt wait till they go!! Anyone who’s been pregnant on here will know how bloody hard your first trimester is so I feel like ive been hit with both sides of the stick, i don’t know what’s withdrawal n what’s pregnancy. Anyway your posts gave me that bit of get up and go today so thank you all. I wish I could just sleep for the next month and wake up feeling myself but were got to go through it dont we. X

Hi Better life and Rach, well done! Keep going! Thanks for posting your experiences, day 2 here and hanging but keeping occupied. I tapered from 600 to 60mg before quitting so I’m hoping I can go to work tomorrow. It will be the first day I’ve been outside without a pill strip in my handbag for 6 years! Love and hugs and positive vibes to everyone on this journey. Steph.xxx

Hello Betterlife . It’s normal you are feeling this way ,we have all had that one day where we thought we could not carry on .It will get easier ,I promise xx Just hang in there a bit longer and you will start feeling yourself again .

Yeah Betterlife, I was taking codeine with paracetamol and codeine with ibuprofen the whole 6 years so try not to worry. Easier said than done I know! I’m glad your feeling a bit better. It’s important to take one day at a time and celebrate each victory I think. Another day codeine free! Life is so hard and it’s difficult to keep going when things are feeling never ending but we will get there and ultimately, emerge stronger I’m sure x

Hey Linds, this forum is just so inspiring! When you hear other peoples stories you just feel you can do it too and you can! I truly think once you get to that point where you just don’t want to live that life anymore you gain a strength from somewhere and get through it. I tried to give up in the past but I simply didn’t really want to. I liked the feeling those tablets gave me. However, this time I’d had enough of that life and I was ready. It really helped to keep going on the hard days knowing that life wasn’t for me anymore. Best of luck with it x

You can do it linds.

I’m on day 7 now and I’ve not had a good night but pain is part of recovery. I know at some point soon I will feel better, we all just have to keep going.

Anyone else lose weight in withdrawal?

I have been following your posts and I have nothing but admiration for .

I was so anxious Betterlife. To make matters worse, I work in a hospital laboratory so my colleagues were testing my bloods. I was convinced I was about to get caught out hence why I stopped taking tablets. I felt so blessed that my body was still ok and I wasn’t about to lose my job I knew it was time to stop for the sake of my family. It was just the wake up call I needed. I couldn’t live that life anymore. Everyone on here that gave them up has gone on to just feel amazing in themselves. No irreversible damage as you said. You’re going to be ok❤️

I too work in a hospital. I’ve no idea how they’ve not caught on yet but you hide things well being an addict don’t you. Were you taking over the amount of paracetamol for a substantial amount of time like me? I read your liver only needs 2 weeks to fix harmful damage. I honestly won’t ever touch the stuff again, it’s robbed me of 5 years and i won’t let it Rob me of any more time.

Yep same! First year stuck to it and then it spiralled. Seems we have been taking the same amount for roughly the same time. Let’s hope my body has been kind to me like yours has too you.

Posative mental attitude… is what I keep telling myself today. Good bye co codomol and hello the rest or my life ❤

I don’t know why but recently about 3-4 of my comments on here have been removed 🤔 The best of luck to you all

Can any of you guys help? I put a post up but I don’t think anyone’s seen it yet? Is it normal to deny that you’ve taken stuff even though it’s blatantly obvious to your partner? And what motivated you to want to stop. I don’t know what to do as I feel i’ve tried everything x

Hi Sleeping Beauty, is she interested in any support groups, online or face to face? I don’t want to sound negative but until she’s ready she’s not going to quit. That doesn’t mean she doesn’t love you / family any less, she doesn’t see reality properly until she wants off/reality wakes her up.

You are 100% right in protecting your own mental health. I wish you the best of luck. Steph.xx

Sleeping beauty I really hope your partner gets better soon, like the others have said it will only happen when she truly wants it. It took me 5 years.

Thanks rach / Maggie for being there for me. I’m in bed still. No energy, diarrhoea even thought I’ve not been able to eat and feeling sick. Can’t wait to feel like I have some energy again.

I just wana wake up and feel like my old self

Sleeping beauty I really hope your partner gets better soon, like the others have said it will only happen when she truly wants it. It took me 5 years.

Thanks rach / Maggie for being there for me. I’m in bed still. No energy, diarrhoea even thought I’ve not been able to eat and feeling sick. Can’t wait to feel like I have some energy again.

I just wana wake up and feel like my old self

I really can’t wait to turn that corner. Today is slightly better than yesterday. After this morning the sickness got a little better. Also listened to some music with gave me a little energy which was bloody lovley! Not much mind but I had enough to sing along to all the songs! Which is good as I’ve not been able to talk much due to the sickness 😕 I’ve just been and had my bloods done (pray for me) now I’m waiting for the kids to come out of school, first time I’ve had enough energy to pick them up. I’ve also managed to drink a slimfast shake and eat half a protein yogurt which is more than I’ve had in a day in the last few days. The music improved my anexity and depression too.

What day did you start to feel a lot better rach / Maggie.

Thanks again for always being there for me through this. It means the world to me and i always look forward to your replies, keeps me going.

Well done for getting to day 3 mac! Amazing!! Im on day 9 and slowing feeling better.

Insomnia is taking the absolute mic now, I just want to sleep! Tummy problems are improving very slightly, still feel sick and no energy but I managed to eat more yesterday and going to try and do the same today.

I feel my worst in the night and morning. Im not leaving my bed till 11am due to sickness and anxiety, thank god for my mum taking the kids to school in a morning.

I’m having my ups and downs. Trying to think posative then I somewhere go back to the dark side.

I’m proud of me and us all though and this journey will only make us stronger.

Hi gang, it’s so good to hear your strength! Well done everyone, as hard as it is it’s worth the fight. I keep getting posts removed so sorry it looks like I’m not posting! Day 5 here, it’s getting a bit easier daily but I’ve got to remind myself that there will be harder days now and then as we all get them chucked in.

Anybody that’s struggling to leave the bathroom plz keep drinking water, it’s far easier with water inside you. Take care folks, we can do this! Steph.xxx

6 to 7 hours 😊 can’t wait for that day to come for me. Before stopping the codeine ( I Don even like saying the word anymore) I was sleeping 9 hours a night and not im sleeping about 3 hours in small intervals during the night. It’s hard being awake all that time alone with your thoughts isn’t it.

Today I managed to take some Xmas stuff down to my mums and pick the kids up from school again. Ive again managed to eat more, I was actually hungry too!! That was a nice feeling that I’d not felt in 9 days.

Evening guys.

Maggie glad you had an amazing time, I love London too. I’ve only been a few times for work but I’d love to go socially. I bet thay felt amazing not having to think about where to get tablets from, we’re free!!! It’s day 13 here for me and I’ve not had any cravings, I think that’s because I was just so done with the things! I’m still not feeling 100% but I have to put some of it down to pregnancy. Anexity and depression isn’t great but it’s not the worst its ever been. Tomorrow I’m challenging myself to get out of the house at least once a day. I cant hide here forever, there’s a life to be lived!

Rach 3 weeks! Wow that’s amazing! We’re chuffing warriors arnt we! How long did it take for your bloods to come back? Had mine done Tuesday and not heard anything. I’m carrying that worry around with me which I think is fueling my anexity and depression.

Hi guys!

I’m not from Britain, but found your posts while searching for codein withdrawal symptoms. I read all the posts and got quite a lot strenght to start my journey towards better codein free life. I’ve been addicted 7 years and can’t tell anybody close to me about this. I’ve been together with my husband for 7,5 years and can’t bare to tell him that i’ve been myself only six months and rest of the time an addict. I took my last pills yesterday and we can’t by codein over the counter here, so it surely helps. I love London and been there at least ten times, last three times I’ve been also doing pharmacy shopping and refilled my stock with Nurofen Plus. Thank you for the strenght you’ve given me to cope with the next few weeks. Looking forward finding my true self and joy towarsds life. I’m sorry for any spelling errors, English is not my native language. And good luck to all of you, I hope I can get as far as you guys. XX

Hi Terry.

Keep going, it will be the best thing you’ll ever do. It’s hard (it’s still hard for me at the minute) but it’s so worth it!

Pianoislife it’s day 14 for me today too. Same as you I’m not sleeping great but a lot better than previous days. I think I get about 6 or 7 hours now.

It’s a week tomorrow since my bloods rach. I dont think my Dr calls if there all fine, I think they just put a note on them so possibly there all fine but do I dare call the drs to find out? Absolutely not 🙃

Hey Maggie that’s amazing that you’ve been able to open up and share with your friend. I have have thoughts about the same thing but I don’t think I have a friend that I’m confident won’t tell anyone else and I really don’t want to be spoken about. I wish I did have that kind of friend.

Your friend is so right in the fact that we should be raising awareness. We all took these pills for genuine reasons and it’s spiralled. It really can happen to absolutely anyone which is scary. I really feel like codeine in any strength should be prescribed and not avaliable over the counter. What do you guys think?

Rach I feel so annoyed with myself as most of my anexity and depression is due to not knowing if my bloods are OK but at the same time I’m scared to death to actually call them. My husband had some bloods done last month with the dr and the dr had his results the next day so I’m sure mine will be back, I’m such chicken shit!! I’ve I’ve myself I have to call on Thursday no matter what, I have to face the music.

My Dr gave me them for 6 months no questions asked then stopped. I then got them online, my mums prescription which like yours just went on and on for years and OTC. I wish they would review medication a lot more frequently than half a year.

I know I’m obsessing over these bloods but I know what I’ve put my body through and it really scares me, did you tablets contain paracetamol Maggie xx

Sleeping beauty your are not selfish one bit so please please don’t ever think that. This is your life too! We all get one life and we have to put ourselves first. So many people spend their whole life putting people before them self’s and its got to stop. Your no 1 I your life and you have to do what’s right for you.

Your partner has to want this and unfortunately if she’s not ready then it won’t Happen. That’s the hard truth. I would have a chat with her, tell her how you feel and your thoughts. Let her know you can’t go on like this and she want her response is.

I really feel for you! It’s a very difficult and sad situation to be in ❤

Hi Ruby,

It’s amazing that you’ve managed to cut down to just one tablet. You’ve done so much hard work already. I would cut that one tablet out, you will feel crap for a week but your so close already that I would just go for it. Maybe pick a time where you don’t have much on and go for it. You can do it.

My tips would be drink loads and loads of water, have a hot water bottle for the restless legs, take vitamins and keep coming on here as talking helps loads. Theses guys have got me through it

Thanks so much Betterlife

I was thinking the same just cut it out

It’s quite scary!

Will definitely up the water intake

Thank you for replying

I shall hold that thought. My quality of life is rubbish so I’m determined to do this 💪🏻

Thank you so much RachBN

I’m going to take your advice. And cut it out completely from Thursday. I did think I was dragging it out so nice to have confirmation. I will try the salt baths. Been lucky not to have the restless legs. I haven’t told my partner as tbh I’m embarrassed and been hiding it. So glad to find this chat Thanks for your support x

Hi Terry

Thanks for the tips. Yes I use a Triptan. And I’ve started aimovig injections.

I’m going to walk around with my migraine hat on hopefully that will help!

Hi overlt123,

Good luck on your journey, you’ve done it once and you can do it again. Amazing that you’ve managed managed get out. I’m on day 16 and it’s only been the last few days where I’ve been able to get up in a morning. Were all here to support you.

Rach it’s day 8 with still no results, the anexity it’s blowing my mind 😥

Hi trouble,

Your currently going through a really tough part but believe me you can do it. A tough couple of weeks is well worth a new, happier and healthier life! Drink loads and be kind to yourself. We are here to support you.

Hi Trouble, we’ve all been where you are right now and if we can do this, I promise you can too! You deserve a better life. Life is much brighter without these tablets in your life. It’s honestly liberating!

The first week is hard. It feels relentless and never ending. But it does! Take one day at a time and be proud for everyday you are fighting through the struggle!

As Betterlife said, stay hydrated. Try eat if you can. Take magnesium salt baths for the legs it helps for some reprieve. And hot water bottle for backs of your legs when trying to sleep can really help too.

You’ll do this and we’re all here to support you❤️

Hi Trouble, it appears your message was deleted. As was my response. But the main point was it’s a hard couple of days for a better life. It’s liberating to be free of those pills. If we could do this, you can too. You’ve got your motivation! We’re all here for support ❤️

Afternoon gang! Hope everybody’s well. Great about the test results Better Life! I don’t know how many days it is for me now but today I feel good, I woke up(got 9 hours sleep) and walked the puppy smiling in the sun! It’s so worth it. I’ve finally thrown remaining pills. I know I don’t need the crutch anymore.

Thanks for being here, I’m so grateful. My family have me back. Don’t give in; it’s robbed us of too much.xx

That’s fabulous StephTom

Hope for us all

I’m feeling pretty rubbish today so have not bitten the bullet yet and gone from my one a day to none. Sore throat and sneezing I guess withdrawal? My plan is tomorrow with nothing planned for the weekend

That’s fabulous StephTom

Hope for us all

I’m feeling pretty rubbish today so have not bitten the bullet yet and gone from my one a day to none. Sore throat and sneezing I guess withdrawal? My plan is tomorrow with nothing planned for the weekend

Well done Rachel BN

Gives us all hope you’ve both done it

I’ve got to just go for it tomorrow

With my migraines it worries me I will end up in a&e which has happened before

I’ve got migraine meds so going to have to rely on them alone

You can do it ruby. Were all here for you!

Good luck Ruby 💪

Hi Ruby, keep going, you’re doing great. It took me about 2 months to stop taking that one pill a day, I was terrified to let go. I’d reduced to 1 pill a day before but I didn’t dare quit and then I started to take more. It was a big yo-yo journey.

Now I wish I’d quit before and not been so scared.

Good luck.x

Hi guys, how’s everyone’s weekend going? I’m spent the day indoors due to the weather. Day 19 here for me. Feeling so so so much bigger than previous weeks. Hope everyone is doing OK.

I hope so Maggie x

Yes it’s so helpful Rach I’ve never actually chatted with anyone who has been in the same situation x

Your day will come ruby! Fingers crossed you don’t have a migraine tonight and you’ll be able to wake up in the morning on day 2! Keeping coming back to the site for support it was the only thing that kept me going at one point.

Thanks Betterlife ❤️

Hi everyone I’m so glad I stumbled across this post. I was researching codeine withdrawal and stumbled across this. I’ve been taking codeine for years. I’ve taken morphine tablets but not for years, codeine is what I always fall back too. Someone’s tramadol if I can’t get codeine as it stops the withdrawals. I have a strip of codeine left, that would usually last a day if that. I want to quit for good this time, I’m just scared. Reading all your posts is really helping me to feel stronger about it though. Thanks for sharing x

Good luck HaveHope

I am day 2 of no pills

Listening to Rach Maggie and Betterlife has really helped me x

Iine free am on day five codeine free.The nights are still horrendous as I am having restless leg in my entire body !! Even my mouth joined in.I phoned my GP who has given me a months worth of treatment to relax my muscles and to get some sleep.You are doing amazing .

Well done Dotty

Day 5 amazing!

Thanks Rach! Super happy about it. Not feeling too bad x

HaveHope That’s what I did tapered down. Take your time doing it and don’t beat yourself up if on some days you go backwards. I cut down by half a tablet every 1-2 weeks depending on how I was feeling. It’s normal to feel emotional and irritable From what I’ve been reading on the posts it takes about 2 weeks to start feeling better. I’m day 3 no tablets! I feel like I’ve a stinking cold but I’m not sure if it’s a cold or withdrawal? Anyone else keep sneezing over and over and snotty nose? Have a good day everyone x

Morning all, hope your all doing OK.

I’m am unfortunately not 😥 I’m having a miscarriage 😔 I’m devastated and I feel like it’s karma. I’ve not felt pain like this, I’m absolutely broken.

Oh you poor poor ,this virtual hug is all I have.Of course its not Karma,its biology doing its thing .Time is the only thing of help as is being with those who love and care for you.

I have been where you are now and I know how dark a place it is but eventually the sun will come out again .I promise.

Oh you poor poor ,this virtual hug is all I have.Of course its not Karma,its biology doing its thing .Time is the only thing of help as is being with those who love and care for you.

I have been where you are now and I know how dark a place it is but eventually the sun will come out again .I promise.

Today is day 6 for me,and thanks to a little help from my GP I did manage to sleep some.

This day is soooo hard and the Codeine is a calling.Today is the day I order my repeat meds,so the Codeine is literally there for the taking.

Oh dear……

Hi all.

I’ve been taking codeine for almost a year.

I started with just a couple to make me feel more relaxed and in the past few months it’s snowballed and I was taking 5 30mg and three solpadine 8/500mg three times a day.

I’ve no 30mg left and not due my prescription yet. My two eldest kids are away and work isn’t that busy this week so I’ve decided I need to stop. I feel so depressed as I’m hooked on them. Everything revolves around when I can chill and take my codeine, but I’m finding I need more and more and it’s a slippery slope.

I’ve stopped the 30mg completely yesterday morning. Instead I’ve had the 8mg x2 last night and then first thing. Just to ease off the heavy symptoms.

Am I correct doing this? I’m scared of doing cold Turkey completely and my plan is to stay on 8mg x2 morning then night just to help, then the drop one 8mg every few days until none left.

I feel very agitated and I’ve done nothing but sleep. I’ve zero motivation to do anything at all.

So essentially I’m down from around 522mg a day to 32mg.

I’m praying I can get off this horrible horrible drug. I want my life back. How has it come to this at all. It’s mental how they are just giving them out to people like sweets. I have no problem getting my prescription each month without question.

Thank you all for replying so quickly. It’s definitely making me feel less alone.

It’s like my insides are full of ants. I feel so out of sorts. It’s horrible.

I can cope with the 4 8mg a day as opposed to 500 odd mg for nothing. I’m just praying these next couple of weeks away. I know I won’t give in. I’ve come too far already to get to the stage admitting I’ve got a problem.

They were initially prescribed for headaches I was getting after covid. They were the only thing that worked. So that has been stressing me slightly that I might start with them again. I’m not bothered though. I’ll find something else.

Thanks for the support you will never know what it means speaking to normal people who are in this cycle. I’ve just been speaking to my mum about it and it’s shocking how easily available they are for people.

30, 30mg plus nurofen and solpadine. Jeez that is a lot. I’m glad you have managed to get off them. I bet you are too.

Seems mental that many but I can totally understand how it can creep up and you’re there before you know it. Well done you for stopping.

Once I’ve got off these I will never ever touch even the 8mg again. It’s not worth it. Life has been so shit these last twelve months. I feel so detached from life and everyone. I can’t wait to have my life back.

Thank you all for replying so quickly. It’s definitely making me feel less alone.

It’s like my insides are full of ants. I feel so out of sorts. It’s horrible.

I can cope with the 4 8mg a day as opposed to 500 odd mg for nothing. I’m just praying these next couple of weeks away. I know I won’t give in. I’ve come too far already to get to the stage admitting I’ve got a problem.

They were initially prescribed for headaches I was getting after covid. They were the only thing that worked. So that has been stressing me slightly that I might start with them again. I’m not bothered though. I’ll find something else.

Thanks for the support you will never know what it means speaking to normal people who are in this cycle. I’ve just been speaking to my mum about it and it’s shocking how easily available they are for people.

30, 30mg plus nurofen and solpadine. Jeez that is a lot. I’m glad you have managed to get off them. I bet you are too.

Seems mental that many but I can totally understand how it can creep up and you’re there before you know it. Well done you for stopping.

Once I’ve got off these I will never ever touch even the 8mg again. It’s not worth it. Life has been so rubbish these last twelve months. I feel so detached from life and everyone. I can’t wait to have my life back.

Totally agree with you. I’m never taking them again I’ve been taking them for 30 years. I can’t wait to be free x

I’ve got the restless legs. Horrible. Two brufen have helped.

Day three tomorrow. I’ve got to go to work in the afternoon and my mum knows I’m coming off them and she works for me so that is going to help surely.

I’m actually glad I’m feeling the withdrawals in a weird way because I know for a fact I never want to feel this again.

I don’t think the 8mg are doing anything but more a comfort thing. I’m going to ring my GP first thing in the morning and tell them that I’m addicted and I don’t want anymore ever again!

I’m assuming that what I’m going through now is the worst and cutting the 8mg down should hopefully not have as much of an effect as it’s having now going from 500 odd mg to 32mg.

I gave up alcohol last year due to using it daily to cope with lockdowns and my business being closed. I’ve done that so I’ve got to do this.

Thanks so much, it’s definitely helping me reading all your stories. I’ve just read back from the beginning each persons story. You’re all so brave.

Better life I’m so sorry you’re going through this. It’s very unfair. Sending you huge hugs. 🤍

First bad night last night.

The restless legs was just a complete restless body. It was awful. I ended up caving and having two 8mg because I needed to sleep and take that edge off that awful awful feeling.

I’m not even sure they did much. I finally went off to sleep about 3am.

I’m not beating myself up about taking the extra two. I’m still down a hell of a lot from the 30’s I was taking.

I’m going to try and hold off taking the 8mg this morning. I’ll see how I get on with just paracetamol and ibuprofen as the restless feeling isn’t there at the moment.

Day three today.

Thank you. 🤍

Never again. I can’t wait for this to be over. I will never ever ever succumb to them again. They are truly horrible.

Hope everyone else is ok 🤍

I’ve managed to sleep a bit this morning.

I felt very very restless.

I’m dreaming of the day I no longer feel like this and I can have a normal life instead of being a prisoner in my own home, counting down the next hours to my dose.

I’ve read loads of the timelines online and they say up to day five is the worst from a physical symptom aspect. So by Saturday I’m praying I feel better as I have a family meal to attend.

I’m so glad I’ve decided to do this now. My original plan was january but I’m relieved I’ve chosen now as it will be over by jan.

The crawling restlessness is hideous, I have fallen by the wayside so many times because I could not deal with the restlessness that going cold turkey lead to.This time I have a script for a low dose of Amitriptyline which hlps me get some sort of sleep.Yesterday was a tough one as my script for the codeine was due.The sensible part of me knew I should not have filled it,but I got it anyway.Its sat there unopened but knowing its there is some twisted weird way comforting.I guess we all get through the days in the best way we can.Don`t beat yourself up if you slip .

Hi Me12you21,

Well done! Keep going, it gets a lot better very quickly. I found activity helped a lot. Raising my heart rate even for short bursts got rid of the anxious voice in my head and stomach. Sleep deprivation makes everything harder so take naps whenever you can and kick the guilt out the door.

Don’t give up!

BettlerLife, I’m so sorry to read this. Nature serves us a rough hand sometimes but it isn’t because of anything you’ve done. You need to be kinder to yourself now than you’ve ever been before. Sending hugs, plz keep checking in. Steph.xxx

Thanks for the replies.

My prescription is due Monday but I know 100% I will not get it.

I need to ring my GP to tell them to knock it off and put a note on that I’m not to be prescribed it.

I had two 8mg this morning to take that awful restless away. I’ve been out, just got home and feel ok. But I know as the night creeps in what’s coming. I’m dreading it 😩

The beauty of the 8mg is that they are mixed with paracetamol and I’m frightened to death of them. I’m so scared I’ll overdose so I would never abuse them. I suppose they are giving me a safety blanket somewhat.

I cannot tell you how strong I feel about never ever being in this position again. Crazy how it’s crept up.

I feel so guilty on my kids how much of a rubbish parent I am at the moment but I’m trying to remind myself that doing this now will make Christmas special for them as ill hopefully be more motivated and the same physical side of things will be over with.

How many days are you now Dotty? It’s so hard isn’t it.

Hi everyone. Just thought I’d post again with my experience. The restlessness is horrible but the restless legs do go away around day 10. For me the anxiety never went away which led to be slipping on day 40, but I’m back on track and on day 2 again now. I have anxious avoidant personality disorder which means I have constant “free floating anxiety” (psychologist words not mine!!), so I know that stopping the opiates won’t magically cure my anxiety but at least I’ll know I’m not an addict. One of my motivations is so I am of sound mind to progress as a pianist (aka name). I don’t want any children so don’t have that as motivation.

Keep going x

Keep going x

Hi everyone. Just thought I’d post again with my experience. The restlessness is horrible but the restless legs do go away around day 10. For me the anxiety never went away which led to be slipping on day 40, but I’m back on track and on day 2 again now. I have anxious avoidant personality disorder which means I have constant “free floating anxiety” (psychologist words not mine!!), so I know that stopping the opiates won’t magically cure my anxiety but at least I’ll know I’m not an addict. One of my motivations is so I am of sound mind to progress as a pianist (aka name). I don’t want any children so don’t have that as motivation.

Keep going x

Keep going x

Morning.

Last night wasn’t too bad. Night three. I managed to get out yesterday for a bit. My stomach is so off though, I’ve got the runs.

I only had the restless body feeling for about an hour or so as I tried to go to sleep last night. I had been waiting for it which is an awful feeling.

Woke up and feel so unmotivated and down this morning but I suppose my brain still doesn’t know what to do with itself yet.

Full day of work today. Day four and a step closer to being rid of these horror pills forever.

Also, a friend of mine pointed me in the direction of the gabapentin threads online. Now that is an eye opener of a horrible drug people are struggling to get off.

It’s actually made me appreciate that we are on a much less horrific drug to get off. I’ll take the small things right now 😂

Good luck today everyone. 🤍

Hi Me12you21,

You’re doing so well! Around Day 3 is usually when the stomach upset starts. Make sure and stay well hydrated!

That lack of motivation takes awhile to go. Your brain is used to codeine triggering the release of endorphins so it’s learning how to do this again for itself. Light exercise etc can really help get those going and give you a little energy.

Ruby, day 5. Well done!! The sleep takes awhile to settle but you’ll get there x

Hi guys I’ve noticed posts are removed randomly for breaking guidelines saying this forum is for the families not the person. Has anyone else have there’s removed? Wondered if there’s another group/forum we could connect on. I’m so enjoying having someone else who understands and listening to each persons story and positivity x

Hey guys, yes I’ve had posts removed a few times. Generally they only remove messages that give specific medical advice regarding withdrawal but My response to you Ruby was removed earlier and I was only saying how well you were doing? It would be great to chat somewhere freely? Any suggestions?

What about a WhatsApp group?

Hi Rach. I’m not great but times a healer and I know il be ok eventually. I’m grieving for my little one so bad and I wish things were different 😔

How are you? X

Yeah thats a point Maggie. Would of been loads better wouldn’t it. X

Me too

Oh I’ll send mine over now.

I’ve literally just finished work and come on to see how everyone was getting on.

I’ve just sent it over to you. 🤍

I’ve had the best day at work that I’ve had in months. I keep thinking about how I feel, if that makes sense and that awful doom feeling is definitely lifting. It’s been so so worth doing this.

Last night I had two 8mg when the restless legs kicked in, thinking it might take the edge off but it didn’t.

So I’m not having any today. It doesn’t work for what I want which was just to ease any of the symptoms and 8mg is too low for me to feel anything from so it was never for that. But now I know it’s not working for the symptoms I may as well stop.

It’s mad that having those there as a safety blanket have helped. I rang my dr today and said I’d been abusing them and to knock me off ever being prescribed them again. So they’ve made a large note on the system.

I feel really fortunate to be coming away from this relatively unscathed.

I’ve been heavily researching prescription drug epidemic and it’s so so bad. In America it is awful! Always the same story, back injury, sports injury, headaches. Then the abuse starts. It’s awful.

I hope you’ve all had a good day. It’s the weekend. Fingers crossed we can all try and enjoy some normality and be getting ready to have a lovely Christmas 🤍

Hi Me12you21, I’m glad you had a good day at work! It’s an amazing feeling once the doom starts to lift and you can see the way out of this cycle finally.

Well done on telling the GP not to prescribe them anymore. They give them out so easy!

I know there is such a huge prescription drug problem in America! The programme dopesick that’s been shown at the moment is all about how Oxycontin became widespread prescribed during the 90s. It’s a really good watch!

Glad you’ll be joining us on what’s app. It’s great to have a support network ❤️

Hi Clab well done for taking the steps to give up. I did it reducing weekly. 1/2 a tablet per week or 2 weeks. (Depending how I was feeling) Just don’t rush it I’m 3 weeks no tablets 😃 Good luck

Hi guys!

Wow seeing all these comments has made me feel so much better.

I’ve been taking zapain 30/500mg now for 7 months. Basically in a bad relationship with a narcissist. I was taking the odd one here and there and I’ll be honest I loved the warm and boost of energy feel it gave me, blocked everything out. I gradually started taking more & more to the point I was on 15 a day, 3 at a time. They wasn’t giving me that feeling anymore so I was taking more & more. Instead of that warm feeling it became a not with it feeling, they had taken over me. Wasn’t living my normal life. Im now 15 days cold turkey. The withdrawals have been horrendous for me. Which led me to open up to my family about this as I couldn’t go through the withdrawals on my own and take care of my toddler. so

Opening to get help was my only option and the support from family has been amazing. Regret opening up to the narcissist partner as now he’s using it against me that the relationship is bad cause I’ve been a secret junkie for 7 months, chucking it in my face constantly, anyway!!! 😫 I’m over the worst. Currently still got loose bowels, restless legs & anxiety but each day I feel stronger. I’ve booked to start having therapy working on making myself happy again & get my strength back to do what I need to do.

Well done Alicia you’ve done it and hopefully over the worst! I too was with a partner who was unsupportive Get your therapy in the new year and your self esteem will be so much better x

Hi Alicia, well done for recognising you needed to get off these pills. 15 days is amazing and you are definitely through the worst if it now. It only gets better from here on in. You should be so proud of yourself for doing this! I’m glad you are getting therapy to work on yourself and gaining your strength back. You deserve to be happy and with someone who supports you through life. I’m here if you ever need to chat. ❤️

Hi Clab, well done on deciding it’s time to stop! That’s the main first step, Tapering or cold turkey really comes down to how much self discipline you have. I never stuck to the taper plan I made so I just had to go cold turkey. Tapering will definitely reduce the severity of the withdrawals once done gradually and it sounds like you are motivated enough to do it. If you need support, we’re all here❤️

Thanks for the support x

Hey all first want to say well done 👏 now im taking 20 a day I keep saying I don’t want this no more but. I hate the cramps and sleepless nights not to say always needing the toilet. Sorry to say its not nice getting up 4 to 5 tines a night to go to toilet has anyone had this problem and how long does it last for. Hope to hear from someone but I need off this horrible stuff but scared of the side effects.

Hi all, it’s so enlightening to hear all of your stories. It’s given me the courage to do what i have to do. I am on my last 25 30mg tabs and I am tapering off. Ive been taking them for the last 4 years. I didnt realise how detached from life i am until I started reading these comments and it got me thinking about my life before pills. I have to do this. I have to for my little one. I will probably be coming here quite a bit in the next week or so. Its amazing to know there are people here who understand.

Hi everyone, I’ve had an opioid addiction on and off for a couple of years. The reason I got stuck in the first place is the feeling of euphoria and excitment that I felt when I first took codeine and it is not a feeling that comes easily to me. I am generally a very mellow and stable person so it was nice to have something that excited me. I had to quit them due to not finding ways to buy them but after being off them for about a year and suffering a mild depression I got stuck again, this time on oxycodone. It’s harder to stop now since I know that I will have nothing to look forward to when I don’t have the pills. But I am at a low point when it comes to feeling like a horrible human being and lying to my wife and family who I cannot bear to tell of my relapse (which has gone on for 8 months now). Sorry for this long essay but I just would like to hear if any of you are similar to me but have found other meaning in your lives after the detox.

Thank you everyone for the encouraging words. It does help even if it’s a just a little help. I’m currently not able to get enough pills as I’m used to so having pretty bad restless legs along with the usual bad stomach etc. Anyone have any advice on how to deal with restless legs? Sharing a bed with my wife and a dog doesn’t make it easy at the moment. Again, thank you all for taking the time to answer, it’s good to know that people care. Dealing with it alone is definitely worse than me telling my friends and family the first time around.

Hi everyone I spoke not so long ago and was trying to taper off, that didn’t work so well. I’m too greedy. I fluttered with stopping by switching to tramadol but I was replacing one with the other and then using both together. I knew I had to stop which is what I’ve admitted and I’m on day 3. I feel awful, I have no energy and the sweats and shivers are awful. I feel down and I keep getting these weird brain zaps as I call them. Little electric currents almost in my brain. I’m fighting on though, these posts give me a little lift today, thanks x

Hi everyone I spoke not so long ago and was trying to taper off, that didn’t work so well. I’m too greedy. I fluttered with stopping by switching to tramadol but I was replacing one with the other and then using both together. I knew I had to stop which is what I’ve admitted and I’m on day 3. I feel awful, I have no energy and the sweats and shivers are awful. I feel down and I keep getting these weird brain zaps as I call them. Like electric jolts. Roll on day 365! X

Sorry for the repeated posts I thought there was a reason it wasn’t submitting so tried to shorten the post and submit again!

Thanks everyone I just keep reading your messages urging myself to keep going. I keep reasoning with myself saying that maybe the taper was the right thing to do and I should try again. I know I’m kidding myself but I hate feeling like this. I feel not too bad one minute then my skin starts burning again and I feel like my insides are itchy. I’m so tired, I really hate this. I hope there’s not too many days of this left. I don’t want to give up x

Thank you, I’m in tears reading this, I’m so grateful for all of your support. My partner and kids think I have flu, only my sister knows what’s going on. It’s just horrible feeling like a crap human being as well as all the physical symptoms. I’m off work until Monday so I’m praying I can manage a little by then. But like you are saying a day at a time. I hope I can help others and look back at this in 8 weeks time, I really do. I am never, ever going through this again x

Thank you, I’m in tears reading this, I’m so grateful for all of your support. My partner and kids think I have flu, only my sister knows what’s going on. It’s just horrible feeling like a crap human being as well as all the physical symptoms. I’m off work until Monday so I’m praying I can manage a little by then. But like you are saying a day at a time. I hope I can help others and look back at this in 8 weeks time, I really do. I am never, ever going through this again x

Thank you xx

Thank you Maggie and RachBN. You are so supportive of everyone here. Bless you. And everyone else here sharing their experiences. I am currently in a London hotel with my 4 year old having a girlie spa day. I wanted to have some quality time with her before the pills run out and the crap begins. My hubbs is aware of the issue but isn’t too supportive but as long as he takes care of little one im not too concerned with chores and other stuff. Luckily i have been told to work from home again today as I work in a London hospital and covid is rife. Its a weight off my mind knowing i wont have to face people at my worst. I will deffo be checking in with you guys. I havent actually started yet, still tapering a little. But when the 30mg tabs run out, all i’ll have left is the nurofen plus. They wont touch the withdrawals. So glad to know i can talk here xxx

Hi to everyone starting their journey. Its going to be a real tough couple of weeks but believe me it’s worth every moment. The freedom you feel after is overwhelming! We’re finally free. I have better connections with my while family now, I finally feel present and I love it. Before I was just existing but now I’m living, I living gor the first time in 5 years.

I too didn’t have the support from my husband or family as no one knew about my secret addiction. I blamed my awful two weeks on being poorly, none of my family still to this day don’t know what I’ve been doing for the last 5 years and they never will. Everyone on here got me through the hardest time of my life and I see them all as true friends now. Please keep coming back to this site and talking, we are here to see you through the hardest of times.

Hi to everyone starting their journey. Its going to be a real tough couple of weeks but believe me it’s worth every moment. The freedom you feel after is overwhelming! We’re finally free. I have better connections with my whole family now, I finally feel present and I love it. Before I was just existing but now I’m living, I living for the first time in 5 years.

I too didn’t have the support from my husband or family as no one knew about my secret addiction. I blamed my awful two weeks on being poorly, none of my family still to this day don’t know what I’ve been doing for the last 5 years and they never will. Everyone on here got me through the hardest time of my life and I see them all as true friends now. Please keep coming back to this site and talking, we are here to see you through the hardest of times.

Morning everyone, I’ve woke feeling a little better this morning. I know it’s a rollercoaster, but I’m glad I don’t feel as horrible right now. I’m proud I didn’t cave because I was so close to throwing in the towel yesterday. Your messages got me through, thanks. I’m here fighting today. No alcohol for me today as that’s a trigger for me. Hope you all have a happy new year x

Thank you, definitely would not say better but not quite as horrendous as yesterday. My tummy is upset, still going hot and cold and feel tired. Can’t wait to get through to the other side though x

As I sit here at home watching the new years eve celebrations start off the new year, all i can think of is how exciting it all used to be to me. I dont feel anything right now, I just wanna crawl back into bed and watch TV. I really hope after i quit this thing I can start to feel the things i used to feel again. I wish everyone here a healthy, happier new year. Bless you all for your continued support. xx

Hello all I’ve stumbled across this forum as I’m worried about my increasing addiction I have to solpodol 30mg/500mg codeine/para it started last year when I had a disc removed from my spine but I’m fine now and I’ve been continuously taking these tablets for around 7 month now and I’m taking roughly 15 -20 a day and I’m worrying about how hard the withdrawal will be from al 7 month period

Todays the first day of tapering for me. I did for a moment think, I’ll just take my usual 3/4 to get me started for the day but I haven’t.I’m reducing 25% at a time. I think it’s going to be the most successful way for me to come off. It will be interesting to see how my life improves over the next few months. Some how I had convinced myself that they actually made my day to day life better, suppose everything feels better when your floating through life! However I can’t wait to wake up and not feel like death, or to not have that “clucking” feeling after a few hours because I need my next fix! Any advice on time frames with tapering? I was planning on doing 25% less each week……I also suffer with an and depression and have found that they help with my anxiety. I think that’s what I’m most worried about how I’m going to cope with the anxiety.

Thank you for taking the time to reply rach after reading how some of you have came through the other side after such hard times I’m feeling more than confident about I start back at work on the 4th and I’m going to begin tapering of then as I think it will help keep my mind occupied

Hi shazza25, them tablets are pretty much the same but a little stronger. I imagine the withdrawal will be pretty much the same though. Good luck, you can do it!!

Hi everyone. Day 2 and I’m lying in bed shivering one minute and hot sweats the next. Watering eyes and runny nose. Can’t get up….zero motivation. Last night was horrendous! The feelings from the restless legs are indescribable, never felt anything like it. Running to the toilet every 5 minutes didn’t help either. I am currently prescribed 4x30mg of codeine daily as part of a tapering regime. I was taking 8x30mg daily for over a year after suffering a shoulder injury. The tapering regime is not working, I’m still looking for that euphoria that I used to feel so end up taking the full weeks prescription in a few days.

So have decided to go cold turkey. Sick of being a slave to the drug and worrying about getting my next hit. I want to feel normal again.

I was just about to go to the local chemist to get a box of cocodamol and give up until I came across this forum.

What an inspiration you guys are. It is great to know that there are people out there that are going through exactly what you are.

I’m going to try and be strong and have enough will power to make it to day 3.

Take care guys and we can do it! Xx

Have you tried a weighted blanket for the restless legs ? I got mine from that well known online shop,it cost around £30 and it did the job brilliantly.I even take it on holiday with me now.

You can do this but in order to do it,you need to be kind to yourself.I realise that this is much easier said than done.

Best wishes to you.

Thanks for the advice. The weighted blanket definitely sounds like the way forward. Suffered from RLS for years but never as bad as this.

Thanks again x

I’m so chuffed for you guys who have made it through the withdrawals and “keep going” to you who are in the midst of it. Your brave and strong don’t ever ever forget that! X

Hi all so today was my first day of tapering down i was taking upto 20xco codomol 30/500 a day and I’ve decided to take 2 on arriving at work at 8am and then 8pm on a night before bed so I dont suffer from restless legs ect which has happened in the past and put me off I’ve felt ok all day but that’s mainly down to me being busy at work and keeping my mind off the only issue I’m finding is round about the 7pm my stomach begins to play up a bit but I’ll hold off until 8pm and hopefully get myself in a routine before tapering further x

Hi, can anyone recommend any rehabs that is good to help with this? I don’t think my family member is able to cope to do it on his own.

Hi, is anyone still out there on this thread?

I have been addicted to codeine for 5 years, and I am on day 2 cold Turkey and the lack of energy is such a struggle. At my worst I was taking 4 packs of Nurofen Plus a day (by rights I shouldn’t even be alive). My health is in the toilet because of this addiction, but the withdrawal is so hard.

Reading all of your stories got me through the worst of yesterdays cravings so just wanted to see if anyone was still out there.