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Opioids are a group of drugs that include both prescription medications, like hydrocodone and tramadol, and illegal drugs like heroin. These substances can be incredibly effective for managing pain but also carry a risk of misuse and addiction. There are two main types of opioids:
Opiates derived directly from the opium poppy include morphine, codeine, heroin, and opium. There are also synthetic opioids, like methadone, hydrocodone (Vicodin), and hydromorphone (Dilaudid), which mimic the effects of natural opioids. For clarity, this guide will use “opioids” to refer to both natural and synthetic types.
When opioids are introduced into the body, they bind to opioid receptors in the brain and other parts of the nervous system, blocking pain signals and often creating feelings of euphoria. This euphoria is part of what makes opioids highly addictive. Over time, the body can build a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same relief, which can be dangerous and lead to addiction.
Opioid addiction is a national epidemic. Between 1999 and 2019, about 450,000 Americans died from opioid overdoses. Massachusetts, for example, recorded that over 80% of drug overdoses in 2018 involved an opioid. The CDC reported nearly 58 opioid prescriptions per 100 Americans in 2017, though prescribing rates have declined as awareness of opioid addiction has grown.
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the issue, with reported deaths from drug overdose reaching an all-time high of nearly 72,000 in 2019 and overdose deaths estimated to have risen by 13% on average in the first half of 2020.
If prescribed opioids, patients can reduce their risk of addiction by taking steps such as:
Consider asking your doctor about naloxone, a medication that can reverse the effects of an overdose, which may be prescribed in case of emergency.
Short-term side effects include drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, and constipation. Regular use can lead to tolerance and a need for higher doses, increasing the likelihood of addiction. In severe cases, opioids can slow breathing to dangerous levels, leading to hypoxia, which deprives the brain of oxygen, possibly causing coma or even death.
Long-term use can also cause breathing difficulties, potential neurological damage, and interactions with other medications. Mixing opioids with other drugs or alcohol significantly raises the risk of overdose.
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of opioid misuse, including:
Women, in particular, face a higher risk due to factors like higher rates of chronic pain, increased opioid prescriptions, and biological differences in processing these drugs.
Knowing the signs of opioid addiction can be vital in identifying when someone needs help. Common signs include:
If you suspect someone has overdosed on opioids, look for signs such as:
To respond, call 911 immediately and, if available, administer naloxone. In cases where breathing is compromised, provide rescue breaths or CPR as necessary.
Withdrawal can be highly uncomfortable, often involving symptoms such as:
Medical supervision during withdrawal is recommended, as symptoms can lead to dehydration, aspiration, or even overdose if an individual relapses.
At Pioneer Behavioral Health, we offer two primary types of treatment:
Treatment at Pioneer incorporates several forms of counseling:
Certain medications can be used temporarily to aid recovery, including:
Efforts to curb opioid abuse must involve patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers:
Opioid addiction is a complex issue that requires both compassion and professional support. At Pioneer Behavioral Health, we’re dedicated to helping individuals rebuild their lives and restore hope. Our team provides not only treatment but also a supportive community, empowering individuals to overcome addiction and lead fulfilling lives.
At Pioneer Behavioral Health, our mission is to provide individuals and families with the resources, support, and treatment needed to overcome opioid addiction and build healthier futures. If you or a loved one is facing opioid addiction, please reach out to us for support.
Leading Addiction Recovery and Mental Health Treatment in Western Massachusetts