Opioids and opioids have been around for centuries and have been used to effectively treat pain. However, in recent years they’ve become a major public health concern due to their potential for abuse and addiction. Examples of opiate and opioid abuse include using the drugs without a prescription, taking more than prescribed, and using them for non-medical reasons.
At American Drug Recovery, we provide compassionate opioid and opiate abuse treatment to our clients. Our treatment approach is evidence-based and tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Call us at (866) 788-4745 to learn more about our services and how we can help you or a loved one on the path to recovery.
The Dangers of Opioids and Opiates
Opioids and opiates are highly addictive substances that can lead to serious health consequences, including overdose and death. These drugs work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which can provide a sense of relaxation and euphoria. However, over time, the body becomes dependent on these drugs for normal functioning, and individuals may develop a tolerance, needing higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can quickly spiral into addiction and lead to serious physical and mental health issues.
In addition to the risk of addiction, opioid and opiate abuse can also have harmful effects on the body. These may include:
- Respiratory depression
- Constipation
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased heart rate
- Impaired cognitive functioning
Opioid overdose is a particularly dangerous situation that can result in death if not treated immediately. Signs of an opioid overdose may include difficulty breathing, slow or shallow breathing, extreme drowsiness, and unresponsiveness.
Examples of Opiates and Opioids
Located in Chandler, Arizona, American Drug Recovery specializes in providing comprehensive treatment programs for substance use disorders, including opiate and opioid addiction. Understanding the different types of opioids and opiates can be a crucial first step in recognizing a substance use problem and seeking help. Understanding examples of opiates and opioids will also help you understand the specific effects of certain substances and how they differ from other types of drugs.
Examples of Opiates
Opiates are natural drugs derived directly from the opium poppy plant. They have been used for centuries for their potent pain-relieving and euphoric effects. Here are some examples:
- Morphine – This is a powerful pain reliever often used in hospitals to manage severe pain. It is highly addictive and can lead to physical dependence and addiction.
- Codeine – This is a milder opiate often found in prescription cough syrups and some painkillers. Despite its lower potency compared to other opiates, codeine can still lead to addiction.
- Heroin – This illegal drug is derived from morphine. Heroin addiction is a serious issue, and American Drug Recovery provides a dedicated heroin addiction rehab program to assist clients in overcoming this challenge.
Examples of Opioids
Opioids include both natural opiates and synthetic or semi-synthetic drugs that have similar effects on the body. They are often prescribed for pain relief but can lead to addiction if misused. Here are some examples:
- Fentanyl – This is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is often used in medical settings to treat severe pain. However, illicitly produced fentanyl is a major contributor to the ongoing opioid crisis.
- Oxycodone – This semi-synthetic opioid is commonly found in prescription painkillers like OxyContin and Percocet. It is highly addictive and often misused.
- Hydrocodone – This is another semi-synthetic opioid found in prescription pain medications such as Vicodin. It is one of the most commonly prescribed opioids and can lead to addiction.
- Methadone – Methadone is a long-acting synthetic opioid often used in the treatment of opioid addiction. However, it also has the potential for misuse and addiction.
American Drug Recovery offers specialized rehab programs for addiction to these substances, including fentanyl addiction rehab and opiate/opioid addiction rehab. Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) and partial hospitalization program (PHP) provide clients with the support and tools they need to overcome addiction and regain control of their lives.
Call American Drug Recovery Today
Understanding the different types of opiates and opioids is an important part of addressing the issue of addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, American Drug Recovery is here to help. Reach out to us online or call (866) 788-4745 to learn more about our programs and services.
