“Opioids: A Guide to Abuse Effects and How Addiction Treatment Works”

Opioids and opiates are prevalent in pop culture and the media. But surprisingly, there are still a lot of things that many people don’t understand about them. For example, it’s easy to think that opioids and opiates are interchangeable, but they actually have a few differences that separate them.

Today we are going to discuss some of the things you need to know about opioids, so that you can be prepared to help someone who is suffering through addiction.

Overview

Opioids are substances that are derived from the opium poppy plant. However, unlike the term “opiates” which is only used to refer to natural substances, “opioids” can refer to synthetic substances as well.

Substances that are considered opioids act on the so-called opioid receptors, creating effects that are similar to morphine’s. In the medical industry, these are used to relieve pain.

Common examples of opioids are oxycodone, Fentanyl, and hydrocodone. Despite their medical uses, these drugs are also abused by illicit drug users. The act of taking high doses of opioids puts a person at risk of suffering from a variety of adverse health effects.

Signs of Abuse

Opioids are habit-forming. Their addictive qualities have forced governments to control the substances strictly, using various laws on prescription drugs. In most governments, producing, smuggling, distributing, and using these opioids are forbidden.

If you fear that someone you care about is abusing opioids, there are a few signs you can look out for.

If their doctor prescribes an opioid for their pain, make sure that they are taking the right doses. Running out of the drug earlier than they are supposed to, can be an indicator of drug abuse. Keep track of their dosage, and the frequency of intake.

Opioids are safe when used correctly.

A person who is misusing it may appear drowsy or tired. They may get nauseated and start vomiting.

They may display the following physical symptoms: anxiety, constipation, slowed breathing, poor memory, inability to concentrate, mood swings, slowed movement, and depression.

Abuse Effects and Withdrawal

Aside from the effects mentioned above, recreational abuse of opioids can produce other health problems. The intensity of such effects may depend on the person’s drug habits, age, and health condition, among other factors.

Common short term effects include drowsiness, paranoia, respiratory depression, and lethargy. On the other hand, long term effects may include constipation, liver damage, and even brain damage.

And like other illicit substances, opioid abuse can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. At this point, it becomes so much harder for the drug user to quit. Withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, and vomiting, may force them to relapse. Certain drugs are associated with fatal withdrawal symptoms, and so it is best to seek treatment for a person who is addicted to opioids.

Addiction Treatment

The best way to address this problem is to help the patient seek treatment. The detox process must be medically supervised, so that the patient’s needs can be managed. They will be given round-the-clock care, particularly if they undergo inpatient treatment.

After an initial assessment of their health condition and drug history, the patient will be given a proper treatment plan. This will serve as a roadmap towards sobriety. Trained professionals will guide them through the process. Their opioid intake will gradually be lowered, while their symptoms are managed.

Afterwards, behavioral therapy and other similar techniques may be used to help the patient stay sober. Proper rehabilitation is necessary to make sure they can stay true to their addiction-free life.

Addiction Free Solutions

Dont be problem focused. Be solution focused! At Addiction Free Solutions, we know that the solution lies within you. You have to commit to living a sober life. We help connect you with a center that can help assist you from detox and rehab to therapy. We want you to get the help that you need so you can go on and inspire others. Looking for in-patient, out-patient or sober living afterwards? We help you with that as well!