Opioid medications can be very beneficial to those who use them correctly. As a medication that is used to help alleviate pain, opioids are used safely and effectively by many people every day, but what exactly are opioids and why can they be dangerous?
What are Opioids?
Opioids are drugs that work by interacting with the opioid receptors in your cells. The medications can be made from the poppy plant or can be synthesized in a laboratory. Regardless of how they are created, opioids travel through the blood and attach to the brain’s opioid receptors. In turn, the cells release signals to muffle the perception of pain. Some examples of opioids include morphine, methadone, hydrocodone, oxycodone and Buprenorphine. Heroin, which is an illegal drug, is also in the opioid family.
What are the Dangers of Opioids?
For some people, the pleasure that results from taking opioids can lead to addiction. Taking opioids in higher doses can slow your breathing as well as your heart rate, ultimately leading to death. Therefore, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when using opioids for pain. You should also be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements that you might be taking.
If you or someone you love is suffering from opioid addiction, a suboxone treatment program may be able to help. To learn more about suboxone, contact Advanced Spine and Rehab. We will be happy to work with you to develop a drug treatment program to help you recover.