Opioid Abuse: Stay Safe, Avoid Addiction.

Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers like oxycodone and hydrocodone, as well as illegal drugs like heroin. These drugs work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which block pain signals and produce feelings of pleasure and euphoria. When opioids are taken in high doses or for extended periods, they can cause physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms. 

When opioids are taken, they bind to specific receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body. These receptors are responsible for pain relief and pleasure. Opioids activate these receptors, causing a flood of dopamine to be released in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward. Repeated use of opioids can lead to changes in the brain, making it difficult to feel pleasure without the drug. The brain adapts to the presence of opioids and requires more of the drug to achieve the same effects. This is called tolerance. 

 

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Over time, the brain also becomes dependent on opioids to function normally. When opioid use is stopped, the brain experiences withdrawal symptoms, which can be extremely uncomfortable and even dangerous. This can lead to a cycle of drug use, as people continue to take opioids to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Addiction is characterized by compulsive drug use despite negative consequences. Opioids can hijack the brain's reward system, leading people to prioritize drug use over other activities and responsibilities. 

Physical dependence occurs when the body adapts to the presence of opioids and requires more of the drug to achieve the same effects. Withdrawal symptoms can include muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anxiety, which can be extremely uncomfortable and even dangerous in some cases. Stay Safe, Avoid Addiction!

Steps to prevent Opioid Use Disorder: 

Opioid Use Disorder refers to a condition when opioids lead to addiction rather than just a medication. Opioid addiction is not something to be taken for granted, its misuse or overuse is the reason that almost 90 people die in the US on a daily basis as per the data shared by the American Society of Anaesthesiologists. 

Opioids are considered safe only when used by people to manage serious pain that an individual may experience after surgery or bone fracture. Opioids should always be taken after consulting a doctor, following the dose and duration strictly prescribed by a doctor. Always make sure to ask your doctor before taking opioids if there is an alternative medication other than opioids that will be as effective as your treatment and never share your opioid medications with anyone. These should be kept away from the reach of children and pets in the house. 

If you are suffering from lifelong pain, opioids are not an effective and safe treatment option for long-term use. You can try other treatments such as medicines that do not cause addiction or you can also take other therapies in addition to medicines. 

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Protect your family and community from opioid misuse if your doctor has prescribed opioids to you. Keep your medicines in a secure, safe place where no one can reach them. Discard unused opioids properly and do not throw them away here and there. You can also follow the takeback program to dispose of your medicine, if the takeback program is not running in your area, then you can take the help of a pharmacist.

Conclusion: 

Opioids that are effective in severe pain management carry a significant risk of addiction and dependence. Using opioids over a long period can lead to the development of drug tolerance, in which the body requires a higher dose to achieve the same effect, and prolonged use can lead to the development of a physical dependence that may lead to withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking the drug. 

To prevent opioid use disorder, it is important to follow your doctor's guidance when taking the medications, explore non-opioid alternatives, and store the medicine securely so that no one else can misuse it. The consequences of opioid addiction can be devastating. Safe disposal of unused opioids is very important including a takeback program so that you can prevent their overuse among your loved ones and community. Opioid misuse and addiction can be prevented by using this drug responsibly and spreading awareness.

Disclaimer:- This information is intended to supplement, not substitute, advice from your healthcare provider or doctor. It does not cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or side effects, and may not be appropriate for your specific healthcare needs. Always consult with your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider before modifying or discontinuing any prescribed portion of your healthcare plan or treatment, in order to determine the best course of therapy for you. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki. 

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