• For 24/7 Treatment Help Call

    (800) 526-5053

  • Is Tylenol With Codeine #3 A Controlled Substance?

    Published on November 6, 2020
    orang pill bottled spilled across an orange table with round pills spread across orange table

    Controlled substances are medications that may cause physical and psychological dependence. Due to these risks, the manufacturing and possession of controlled substances are strictly regulated by federal law. 

    While Tylenol with Codeine #3 shares the name of Tylenol, it contains codeine (an opiate drug for increased pain relief). All opioids, including opiates like codeine, are controlled substances. 

    Any individual that uses medications containing opioids is at risk of developing physical and psychological dependence. 

    If you or someone you love is taking Tylenol with codeine #3, learn more about this opioid medication and the risks involved with codeine addiction.

    Understanding Drug Classifications

    If the federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) determines that a drug poses a risk to the public for abuse and addiction, it will be classified into one of five drug classification schedules

    Drug classifications are based on 

    • medical usage
    • the potential for abuse
    • if the drug poses a risk to public health
    • the risks associated with developing a dependency
    • how closely the drug is related to other controlled substances

    Tylenol with codeine #3 is classified as an opioid-containing analgesic medication and as a Schedule III controlled substance. This medication exposes patients and other users to the risks of opioid addiction, which can lead to overdose and death. 

    Other examples of drug classifications include:

    • Schedule I: heroin, marijuana, LSD
    • Schedule II: cocaine, morphine, oxycodone, and Ritalin
    • Schedule III: Tylenol with codeine and ketamine
    • Schedule IV: Xanax, Valium, and Ambien
    • Schedule V: Lyrica and cough suppressants

    Tylenol With Codeine #3 Addiction & Abuse

    Tylenol with Codeine #3 is an opiate prescribed in 15-60 mg doses of codeine per 300-1000 mg of tylenol (acetaminophen) in tablet form. 

    Other highly addictive opiates are commonly known as heroin, morphine, and oxycodone. Because Tylenol with codeine isn’t as heavily regulated as other opiates, it’s easier to misuse. 

    Habitual and prolonged use of this medication may develop into addiction. Codeine addiction may start after it’s prescribed to treat pain caused by common injuries because an individual is unaware of the drug’s addictive qualities. Others may abuse the drug for its euphoric effects.

    Signs of codeine abuse may include:

    • drowsiness
    • anxiety or depression
    • short attention span
    • impaired judgment
    • weight loss
    • mood swings
    • dilated pupils
    • lack of coordination
    • apathetic behavior
    • inability to feel pleasure (anhedonia)

    Abuse of acetaminophen and codeine can cause permanent damage to body organs and the brain, as well as lead to fatal overdoses. 

    Codeine addiction may also cause problems in other areas of life, including relationship problems, trouble with employment, and neglecting responsibilities. When an addicted individual cannot live beyond the habitual use of codeine, life may become unmanageable.

    Codeine Withdrawal

    When chemical dependency on acetaminophen and codeine is established, stopping the medication may cause withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms occur as the brain struggles to adapt to the loss of the drug in the body. 

    For an addicted individual, suddenly stopping codeine can be dangerous. 

    Withdrawal may cause flu-like symptoms. For long-term users, withdrawal symptoms may be severe enough to require medical assistance. It’s important to consult with a medical professional before starting or stopping the use of this prescription medication.

    Recognizing Addiction & Seeking Treatment

    It may not be easy for friends and family members to identify differences between normal prescription drug use and abuse, especially in cases where an individual intentionally hides their addiction. 

    Because Tylenol with Codeine #3 is commonly prescribed, a qualified addiction expert may be required to carefully diagnose and recommend treatment. 

    Treatment specialists use both the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and other diagnostic criterias to evaluate a patient suspected of suffering from codeine addiction. This comprehensive assessment allows us to craft a tailored treatment plan for your needs. 

    If you have any questions about prescription drug abuse or the rehab programs available at Ark Behavioral Health, please connect with one of our treatment specialists today.

    Written by Ark Behavioral Health Editorial Team
    ©2024 Ark National Holdings, LLC. | All Rights Reserved.
    This page does not provide medical advice.
    Sources

    DailyMed - TYLENOL WITH CODEINE- acetaminophen and codeine phosphate tablet
    U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration - The Controlled Substance Act
    U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus - Acetaminophen and Codeine

    Questions About Treatment?

    Ark Behavioral Health offers 100% confidential substance abuse assessment and treatment placement tailored to your individual needs. Achieve long-term recovery.

    100% confidential. We respect your privacy.
    Prefer Texting?

    Our friendly support team is here to chat 24/7. Opt out any time.

    chat-header

    Our Facilities

    Premier Drug Rehab & Mental Health Care Facilities In Massachusetts & Ohio

    Bedrock Recovery

    Canton, MA

    • Medical detox
    • Inpatient & Residential Treatment
    • Primary Mental Health Care
    • Movie Theater & Fitness Center

    Learn More

    Northeast Addictions

    Quincy, MA

    • Day treatment program
    • Intensive Outpatient Program
    • Full-Day Group Therapy
    • Easy Access to Public Transit

    Learn More

    Spring Hill Recovery Center

    Ashby, MA

    • Residential Treatment
    • Gender-Specific Residencies
    • Outdoor Recreation
    • Expansive 70-Acre Campus

    Learn More

    Ohio Recovery Center

    Van Wert, OH

    • Medical Detox
    • Residential Treatment
    • Primary Mental Health Care
    • 55-Acre Campus

    Learn More

    For Immediate Treatment Help Call 800-526-5053