Chronic use of Codeine

[BonVivant]

Hi everyone,

I’ve been taking codeine for over 11 years due to chronic back pain, and I’m really concerned about the potential long-term effects. Initially, my GP prescribed me Co-codamol (30/500mg), which I took for about 4 years at a dosage of 2 tablets a day. However, after learning that chronic use of paracetamol (one of the ingredients in Co-codamol) could damage the liver, I spoke to my GP about my concerns. He agreed to switch me to pure codeine (30mg), which I’ve been taking for the past 7 years, up to 4 times a day as needed.

Typically, I take codeine once or twice a day, depending on the pain level. At first, constipation was a significant issue, so I’d stop taking codeine for a day or two to allow my body to adjust. This routine worked for a while, and over time, my constipation became more manageable even with regular use.

Now, my main concern is the potential impact on my kidneys. I’ve read that long-term use of codeine can lead to kidney damage, and I’d like to hear from others who may have been taking codeine for as long as—or longer than—I have. Have you experienced any kidney-related issues or other consequences from chronic codeine use?

For context, addiction hasn’t been a problem for me. I can go days without taking codeine, though I do notice that I tend to be in a bad mood during those times.

Any insights or experiences you could share would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[Sugaree]

hi bonvivant, sorry to hear you have chronic back pain. I have chronic back and neck pain and migraines. I no longer take Tylenol which is same as paracetamol. I have taken so much for decades of weekly migraines that it showed up in liver panel. I stopped but I still take butalbital, which is pain prescription with small amount of paracetamol,barbiturate and caffeine. If I stop I would have to do it slowly and with excruciating headaches. I have done that it past. There’s always a trade off for taking long term meds. But I have long term pain. Arthritis in my neck and spine. I take tramadol, another pill that has long term affects on liver. In my thirties and forties I was raising my kids and I couldn’t function without meds because of the constant migraines. I made a choice quality of life raising my girls without worrying about future health. I only took the prescribed dose. I take no other meds containing Tylenol. I am older now and thankful that I had that medication for migraines. But I still take it for arthritis pain and pinched nerves. As well tramadol and muscle relaxers. I’m hesitant to start opioids but arthritis isn’t going away. We do what we have to in order to live with pain. I can’t answer your question but only share my experiences. All pain meds have negative long term effects even over the counter ones. Hopefully you’ll have less pain tomorrow. ✌🏻

[Suzie42]

I have been taking codeine for 7 years now, for back and hip pain and helping with diarrhoea from other medications I take. I take paracetamol during the day, but only codeine at night. I have 3 monthly blood tests which would show any damage to liver or kidneys. So perhaps for peace of mind you should get yours checked.