What Is Codeine?

Codeine is a prescription opioid often combined with other medications to treat pain and suppress coughing. It alters how the brain perceives pain and reduces activity in the cough center of the brain. Depending on the formulation, codeine can be classified under Schedule II, III, IV, or V of the Controlled Substances Act. It is available in tablets, capsules, and liquid forms.

How Long Does It Take To Feel Codeine’s Effects?

After ingestion, codeine is quickly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and begins affecting the central nervous system within 30 to 60 minutes. The effects, such as pain and cough relief, typically last three to four hours, requiring multiple doses throughout the day for sustained relief.

Codeine Half-Life

The half-life of codeine is about three hours, meaning it takes this long for half of the dose to be metabolized and eliminated. Codeine is broken down in the liver into active metabolites, including morphine, codeine-6-glucuronide, and norcodeine. Some of these metabolites have longer half-lives, prolonging the drug’s effects for up to six hours.

How Long Does Codeine Stay in Your System?

The detection window for codeine depends on the type of drug test used and individual factors. Below are typical detection times for various testing methods:

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Urine (1-3 Days)

Codeine can be detected in urine for one to three days, making this the most common method for routine drug screening.

Blood (2-4 Hours)

Blood tests can detect codeine for two to four hours, making them less common due to their short detection window and invasive nature.

Saliva (7 Hours)

Codeine can be detected in saliva for up to seven hours, though detection depends on equipment sensitivity and individual differences.

Hair (10 Weeks)

Hair tests can detect codeine use for up to 10 weeks, offering a long-term detection method but not indicating recent use.

False Positives for Codeine

False positives for codeine or other opiates can occur due to poppy seed consumption or cross-reactivity with other medications, such as:

  • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
  • Dextromethorphan (cough suppressants)
  • Verapamil (used for high blood pressure)
  • Doxylamine (an antihistamine found in sleep aids)

It’s crucial to confirm positive test results with more specific methods like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

How Long Does Tylenol With Codeine Stay in Your System?

Tylenol with codeine, available as Tylenol #3 or Tylenol #4, contains acetaminophen and varying amounts of codeine.

  • Codeine: Detectable for about a day.
  • Acetaminophen: Detectable for four to six hours.

In cases of liver impairment, metabolism slows, potentially prolonging the presence of both substances in the body.

Factors That Affect Codeine Detection Times

Several factors can influence how long codeine remains in your system. Understanding these factors can explain why codeine detection times vary greatly between individuals. Always consult a medical professional for personalized information. These include:

1. Dosage and Duration of Use

  • Higher doses: Larger amounts of codeine take longer to metabolize and eliminate from the body.
  • Chronic use: Long-term or frequent use of codeine can lead to accumulation in the system, which may prolong detection times due to saturation of the body’s metabolic pathways.

2. Age and Weight

  • Age: Older individuals may process codeine more slowly due to reduced liver and kidney function, leading to longer detection times.
  • Body mass: People with higher body weight or fat content may experience delayed elimination since codeine and its metabolites can bind to fat cells.

3. Liver and Kidney Health

  • Liver function: Codeine is metabolized in the liver. Conditions such as cirrhosis or hepatitis can significantly slow down the metabolism of codeine, prolonging its presence in the body.
  • Kidney function: The kidneys help excrete codeine metabolites. Impaired kidney function may delay the elimination process.

4. Concurrent Medications

  • Drug interactions: Certain medications can slow or speed up the metabolism of codeine:
    • Inhibitors: Drugs that inhibit liver enzymes, such as cimetidine or fluoxetine, may slow down codeine metabolism.
    • Inducers: Drugs that enhance liver enzyme activity, such as rifampin, may speed up the process.
  • Polymedication: Taking multiple medications can overload the liver, delaying the breakdown of codeine.

5. Genetics

  • CYP2D6 enzyme variations: Codeine relies on the CYP2D6 liver enzyme to convert into its active form, morphine. Genetic differences in this enzyme can result in individuals being:
    • Ultra-rapid metabolizers: These individuals convert codeine into morphine very quickly, leading to faster effects but shorter detection times.
    • Poor metabolizers: These individuals process codeine slowly, prolonging its presence in the system.

Get Help With Codeine Addiction in Indianapolis, IN

If you or a loved one is struggling with codeine addiction, The Recovery Village Indianapolis is here to help. We offer comprehensive treatment programs, including:

  • Medical detox
  • Inpatient care
  • Outpatient therapy
  • Long-term aftercare

Our experienced team provides evidence-based care tailored to your needs. We accept most insurance plans and offer confidential consultations. Contact us today to discuss your treatment options and get started.