Long-term codeine use is associated with depressive symptoms.
A community survey was conducted among long-term (>6 months) users of codeine-containing products to characterize chronic use of these extensively consumed medications. Respondents recruited through newspaper advertisements completed a mailed questionnaire. Three hundred thirty-nine completed questionnaires were obtained, yielding a response rate of 70%. Codeine dependence/abuse as defined by DSM-IV criteria was present in 41% of the respondents. Two thirds of the subjects had sought help for mental health problems, most often depression (70%). Scores on the Symptom Checklist-90 subscales were modestly elevated, particularly on the Depression subscale (1.2 +/- 0.9). Long-term codeine use is strongly associated with dependence. Depression and depressive symptoms are common. These data suggest that dysphoric mood states may be significant in maintaining long-term codeine use.
Romach
M K
MK
Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, Ontario, Canada. myroslava.romach@utoronto.ca
Sproule
B A
BA
Sellers
E M
EM
Somer
G
G
Busto
U E
UE
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003061:Codeine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003863:Depression / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008134:Long-Term Care; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009864:Ontario; D009293:Opioid-Related Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D003061:Codeine