dangers of long term use of codeine phosphate

[bedegirl]

I am a long term sufferer of IBS and the only drug that really helps is codeine phosphate I only take 30 mg per day but on bad days , 60mg. I have taken this drug daily for at least 20 years The doc occasionally suggests i take something else as it can be addictive but nothing else works as well for me and I would say I am definitly not addicted to it But is it causing liver or other damage? I am 70 years old

[bedegirl]

Thanks a lot. Am sure I am not addicted. Leave them off whenever i have a day i am not going anywhere. Have love/hate relationship with them! Will check with doc to make sure they are not killing me and then maybe treat them with a bit more respect They are what enable me to live a normal life.

[bedegirl]

Thanks Will ask the for tests whch I guess will give me the answer Thanks a lot. So obvious. Why didn't I think of that!

[weaver71]

If you have been taking this med as prescribed for 20 yrs. and you don't have liver or kidney damage, I think you are fine. You just have to have your doctor check your organs. Opiates without additional meds are not usually damaging to the body, but it's worth checking with the doctor. If you are not an addict and are healthy, I don't see why you would change what you are doing. If you feel yourself taking them for any other reason, that's a red flag.

[IBKleen]

Hi,

I don't know if it will cause problems with you or not. That is something a doctor will need to determine with testing. It would be impossible to diagnose that on the internet. Talk with your prescribing physician and express your concerns. Maybe they can prescribe something else. I wish you the best.