Opioids, or opiates, encompass both illegal drugs like heroin and prescription pain relievers. They can be categorized as natural, derived from the opium poppy, or synthetic. While effective for pain relief, both opiates and opioids pose significant risks, including dependence, addiction, overdose, and potential death.

Opioids interact with receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and digestive system, primarily affecting those linked to pain and pleasure. By binding to these receptors, opioids block pain signals and trigger dopamine release in the brain's reward center, creating feelings of euphoria. This process can lead to a cycle of dependence and addiction, as the brain seeks to replicate the pleasurable experience.

Examples of prescribed opioid medications include:

• Codeine – an ingredient in some cough syrups and in one Tylenol® product

• Hydrocodone – Vicodin®, Lortab®, or Lorcet®

• Oxycodone – Percocet®, OxyContin®, or Percodan®

• Hydromorphone – Dilaudid®

• Morphine – MSContin®, MSIR®, Avinza®, or Kadian®

• Propoxyphene – Darvocet® or Darvon®

• Fentanyl – Duragesic®

Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal from opioids can lead to unpleasant and painful physical symptoms due to the body's dependence on the drug. These symptoms can vary in severity and differ from person to person, depending on the level of withdrawal. Opioid withdrawal can be dangerous, and severe symptoms may occur as individuals reduce or stop their use of the drugs.

Early symptoms (within 24 hours of stopping the drug):

• Anxiety

• Muscle aches and pains

• Insomnia

• Excessive sweating

• Restless Legs

• Repeated Yawning 

Later symptoms:

• Nausea and vomiting 

• Rapid heart rate 

• Dilated pupils

• Abdominal cramping

• Diarrhea

• Higher blood pressure