Why do you need to know about Opioid addiction basics?

 Opioids are pain-relieving medications that doctors frequently prescribe. A solid desire to do something is defined as an addiction. It's a strong desire to use opioids in this case. Addiction is a disorder that strikes both the brain and the individual's behaviour. At first, you have some control over whether you use opioids or not. However, if you don't take Opioid Dependency Specialty Services as prescribed by your doctor, the side effects will eventually make you want to keep taking them. Your brain changes over time, causing you to develop a strong desire to use opioids.


Opioids get guided to treat many issues, including:

  • Toothaches and dental procedures

  • Injuries

  • Surgeries

  • Chronic conditions such as cancer

Opioids work by reducing the amount of pain signals your body sends to your brain. They also alter how your brain perceives pain. Opioids are safe when used correctly. However, people can become addicted to opioids if they misuse the medication (opioid use disorder). Opioids can also be used illegally, which can lead to addiction.


What is opioid addiction?

Opioid addiction is a strong desire to use opioid-based medications. But, exactly, what are opioids? What exactly is a habit?


Some opioid drugs include:

  • Opium

  • Codeine

  • Fentanyl

  • Heroin

  • Hydrocodone and oxycodone

  • Hydromorphone and oxymorphone

  • Methadone

  • Morphine

  • Tramadol


What causes opioid addiction?

Opioids work by producing artificial endorphins in the brain. These endorphins make you feel good in addition to blocking pain. Overuse opioids can cause your brain to become reliant on these synthetic endorphins. Your brain may even stop producing endorphins once you've done this. You are more apt to develop this condition if you use opioids for a long time. Furthermore, you'll require more opioids over time due to drug tolerance.


Drug tolerance occurs when your body becomes habitual to the effects of a drug over time. For example, to achieve the same level of pain relief, you must take a higher amount of opioids over time. To achieve the same effect, you may need to take a higher dose.


When you stop using an opioid for a while, your tolerance will fade. If you need to begin retaking it, you won't need your previous higher dose. It is because the body may not be able to handle it. If you have stop taking a medication and then restart it, talk to your doctor about the dosage.


What is drug dependence?

Drug dependence occurs when your body's functioning changes due to long-term use of a drug. When you stop taking the drug, these changes cause withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe and include the following:

  • Sweating

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Chills

  • Diarrhea

  • Shaking

  • Pain

  • Depression

  • Insomnia

  • Fatigue

Work with your doctor if you've been taking a prescription opioid for a long time. They can assist you in avoiding withdrawal symptoms by gradually lowering your dose until you no longer require the medication.


What is the discrepancy between drug tolerance, dependence, and addiction?

Drug tolerance and dependence are common side effects of long-term opioid use. However, you can be tolerant of a drug or dependent on it without becoming addicted.

On the other hand, addiction is not a common occurrence. It's a condition. You are addicted to a drug when it appears that neither your body nor your mind can function without it. Addiction causes you to seek out the drug obsessively, even if it is causing you problems with your behaviour, health, or relationships.


Is it possible to prevent or avoid opioid addiction?


Many people can safely use opioids without developing an addiction to them. However, they have a high risk of becoming addicted. It is especially true if you're using them to treat chronic pain.


If you can use opioid drugs for no more than a week, you are more likely to avoid addiction. But, according to research, using them for more than a month can make you addicted to them.


Living with opioid addiction


Recognizing that you have an opioid addiction is the first step toward recovery. If you believe you are addicted to them, know that you are not alone. In addition, realizing that you have control over your behaviour is the first step toward overcoming addiction.


Specific organizations get dedicated to assisting people addicted to drugs or alcohol and Opioid Dependency Specialty Services. They want you to succeed, so they'll provide you with the resources and encouragement you'll need to stop and move on with your life. Also, enlist the help of your family and friends.
Location: 1116 Centre St N, Calgary, AB T2E 2R2, Canada

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