Prescription drug abuse: Opioids

What are opioids?

Opioids are most commonly prescribed to relieve pain. Some commonly prescribed opioids include, morphine, codeine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone.

How do they act on the body?

Opioids act on the brain and body by attaching to specific proteins called opioid receptors, which are found in the brain, spinal cord, and gastrointestinal tract. When they attach they block the perception of pain.

Why are they abused?

Opioid drugs induce euphoria, a feeling of "high," which is why they are commonly abused. These feelings are intensified when the drug is taken in different ways than recommended. For example OxyContin is a time-released drug which is often crushed by the abuser to feel more effect. Snorting the drug is another way opioids are abused.(NIDA) Most teens believe that taking prescribed medicine is safer and more accessible than illegal drugs. Nearly one if five teens have admitted to using pain medication such as vicodin or OxyContin to get high.(drugfree.org)

Opioids are safe and rarely leads to addiction when taken as directed for short periods of time, however long-term use can lead to addiction and dependence. When opioids are abused their is a high risk for medical consequences, such as overdose, respiratory arrest, coma, and addiction. Did you know that Matthew Perry almost died from taking too much of an opioid, vicodin?

Side Effects of Opioids:
Short-term use: drowsiness, constipation, possibly lowered breathing rate, and of course relief of pain
Long-term use: risk for addiction
Opioids should not be taken with any kind of depressant such as alcohol, antihistamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, or general anesthetics, because they increase the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression.(NIDA)

Treatment for addiction
Discontinuing opioids abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes with goose bumps (“cold turkey”), and involuntary leg movements. Treatment includes supervised detoxification and then behavioral treatment with medication such as Methadone, which helps with symptoms and cravings.

www.drugabuse.gov/ResearchReports/prescription/prescription2.html
www.drugfree.org/Portal/DrugIssue/Features/Generation_Rx_study_confirms_Abuse_of_Prescription