Opioids are a class of drugs derived from the opium poppy. They are primarily used as analgesics (pain relief). Along with the pain relief, most opiates give a feeling of euphoria and a degree of sedation. These side effects are what make them popular as drugs of abuse.
Other effects are cough suppression and constipation - opioid addicts usually find drugs to treat these ailments as well.
Call 1-877-398-4144 any time to discuss treatment options if you or a loved one needs help with an addiction.
Along with drugs derived directly from the opium poppy, the term opioid has come to refer to other, synthetic pain medications that act on the same receptors in the body and cause many of the same effects. While not strictly accurate, synthetic and semi-synthetic drugs will sometimes be referred to as opiates. They are more properly called narcotics, from the root narko, meaning sleep, numbness, or stupor.
- True Opiates
- Morphine, Codeine
- Semi-synthetics
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin), Oxycodone (Percocet), Heroin
- True Synthetics
- Fentanyl, Methadone
photo by Martin Henkelmann
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If you think that you or a loved one might have a problem with addiction, please call toll-free 1-877-398-5115 for treatment options.
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