Opioid Classification: Illustrated by Examples, Differentiation between Opioids and Opiates, and Further Insights
Opioids are a broad category of drugs that can be naturally derived from the opium poppy plant (known as opiates) or synthetic/semisynthetic, designed to mimic opiate effects. Examples of opiates include heroin, morphine, and codeine, while synthetic/semisynthetic opioids include fentanyl, methadone, hydrocodone, and oxycodone.
Prescription opioids may be prescribed for recovery from major surgery, advanced stages of cancer, a serious injury, or conditions causing chronic pain like osteoarthritis. However, these drugs, such as fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, and morphine, are often misused illegally and can lead to health issues like pregnancy issues, collapsed veins, trouble breathing and respiratory depression, impaired judgment, increased risk of diseases of the liver, kidneys, or other organs, increased risk of developing infections such as hepatitis and HIV, slowed heart rate, and potential for a fatal overdose and addiction.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classes many prescription opioids as Schedule 2 drugs due to their potential for abuse. The risks and side effects of opioids include addiction, misuse, overdose, confusion, tolerance, physical dependence, constipation, depression, increased sensitivity to pain, dizziness, sleepiness, itching, sweating, dry mouth, nausea and vomiting, low testosterone levels, and decreased strength, energy, and sex drive.
It is crucial for individuals prescribed opioids for pain management to consult their healthcare provider regularly to avoid physical dependence, which can occur within four to eight weeks of use. They should also discuss any other medications they are taking to avoid increasing the risk of overdose. People with opioid use disorder should seek help from healthcare professionals for treatment and support.
Combining opioids with benzodiazepines like lorazepam, alprazolam, and diazepam increases the risk of overdose. If a person experiences early signs of opioid use disorder (OUD), such as cravings, inability to control use, or withdrawal symptoms, they should seek help immediately. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provide help and support for those struggling with addiction.
Seeking help for addiction can be daunting or scary, but various organizations offer support for those struggling with addiction. It is essential to remember that seeking help is a courageous step towards recovery and improved health.
[1] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Opioids. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/opioids [2] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2020). Opioid Overdose Prevention Toolkit. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/opioid-response/prevention/opioid-overdose-prevention-toolkit [3] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). Opioid Overdose Crisis. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/opioids/opioid-overdose-crisis [4] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2020). Medications for Opioid Use Disorder Save Lives. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/medications-opioid-use-disorder-save-lives [5] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Opioid Overdose. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/opioids/index.html
Science and health-and-wellness experts emphasize the significant impact of prescription opioids on mental health, as these drugs, such as fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, and morphine, can lead to addiction. It's crucial for those struggling with opioid addiction to seek help from mental health professionals and utilize resources like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provide assistance and support for individuals battling addiction.
