Prescription opioids are generally prescribed to treat moderate to severe chronic pain as the chemicals in the drug help relax and calm the body. However, these effects are what lead to opioid abuse and eventually addiction, even when taken as prescribed by a doctor.
Opioids refers to a class of drugs that are derived from the opium poppy plant. Some opioids are made directly from the plant while others are created in labs using the same chemical structure. The opioid class of drugs includes both illicit substances, like heroin, as well as prescription medication, such as oxycodone.
The opioid drug class encompasses a long list of substances, some legally prescribed by a doctor, some illegal.
Opioids, even when prescribed, can cause your body to become dependent and alter your brain chemistry.
Prescribed drugs include:
Illegal Opioids are often cut or mixed with other drugs making them more than just opioids.
However, Illegal Opioids include
Opioids activate a series of receptors on nerve cells commonly called opioid receptors. By activating these receptors, the brain is unable to perceive pain and boosts a person’s sense of pleasure.
In terms of pain management, opioids are a common solution due to how they react with the body. As opioids fill the receptors, the normal feeling of pain is blocked and replaced with feelings of pleasure. These changes are what cause the strong abuse potential among opioid users.
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