Within the world of medications, some require more attention and diligence than others. Many have reached for Advil or Aleve to remedy certain bodily discomforts. However, what if those medications do not suffice? Oftentimes, patients will be prescribed opiates for pain felt in the body, from mild to severe. Opioids are known for their high level of potency, potentially leading to opioid addiction.
It’s for this reason that being aware of the potential difficulties that can accompany taking opioids is crucial when aiming to avoid any pitfalls. When equipped with baseline knowledge of these substances before taking them, we can better understand the positive and negative impacts that can potentially follow. Here at the Woodland Recovery Center, we aim to assist you on your journey toward this understanding and help you get the support you need with addiction.
Why Are Opioids Addictive?
Knowing the risks of opioids before using them helps us make safer choices when it comes to managing pain. The intensity of opioid dependency can rise in a short amount of time, so it’s crucial to be aware of the power of these substances. When taking an opiate, the substance directly impacts your brain. Opioid receptors in your brain are activated, releasing endorphins and dopamine that deliver sensations to the body. Feelings such as euphoria, relaxation, and pain reduction can all be attributed to the chemical reaction brought about by opioids.
While these properties can be remarkable remedies for severe injuries or other issues, they can be just as dangerous. Your brain can quickly build a dependency upon these substances. Your brain’s natural dopamine production decreases even after short-term use, leaving you with a lower baseline than you originally had. When this imbalance is felt, much of the time, the opiate is the first thing sought after to return to the euphoric state. With the potency of these opioids being so high, tolerance is also built up quickly, leading to a cycle of usage and potential struggles when trying to leave the substance behind.
What Are the Most Addictive Opioids?
When aiming to understand the many nuances of opiates and other painkillers, it’s important to remember that there’s not just one substance to look out for. Many substances are classified as opioids, and many of them are accompanied by dependency and withdrawal. While levels of awareness and legal availability vary, many of these substances are still prevalent in society, making understanding their dangers even more important. A few of these opioids include:
Fentanyl
A synthetic substance, fentanyl is one of the most potent opioids on the spectrum. Used for pain management, post-surgery relief, and even anesthesia. Fentanyl is not only one of the most addictive opiates but is also the most dangerous. Fentanyl has lethal potential even after just one use, making it one of the most dangerous substances in our country.
HydroMorphine or Dilaudid
A medication that focuses on severe pains as well as chronic cancer pains, Dilaudid is another commonly used opiate. Mainly reserved for situations where other opioids were ineffective or not able to be tolerated, this substance can be used in many forms. Tablets, liquid, and injectable IV are all ways of administering the medication. With the high potency of the substance, Dilaudid is added to the list of opioids that pose the risk of addiction.
Morphine
When pain is felt on a long-term basis, morphine may be the best option. When facing severe pain over an extended period, morphine can be used for chest and abdominal pains, arthritis, and headaches. In addition to this, morphine can be used to reduce pain and anxiety from heart attacks. Even though it may not be as potent as Fentanyl, Morphine shares the risk of dependency as other opiates do, and caution should be prioritized when dealing with these substances.
How Addictive Is OxyContin?
Oxycontin is a powerful opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. While commonly prescribed, it’s important to understand its risks. Oxycontin binds to brain receptors, triggering strong dopamine releases. Even with proper use, maintaining the correct dosage is crucial, as the body can quickly build a dependency. This reliance can lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as:
- Anxiety
- Sweating or chills
- Trouble sleeping
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Depression
- Opioid Cravings
It’s essential to remember that even when prescribed, opiates must be handled with care due to their potent nature. The speed at which dependency can form and the potential severity of the cravings and other symptoms are flags that should be regarded when consuming opioids. Recognizing their ability to provide relief while staying mindful of the possible concerns they may pose enables us to harness their benefits effectively and responsibly.
Possible Choices for Non-Addictive Pain Medication
In the realm of pain relievers, it often feels like a landscape that demands continuous supervision. However, some medications pose a lower risk of dependency, minimizing the chances of substance use disorders. Both prescription and over-the-counter options are available that target many of the same pain areas as more potent opioids but with reduced risk. Here are a few examples:
- Ibuprofen
- Acetylsalicylic
- Naproxen Sodium
- Celecoxib
- Fenprofen
These medications range from over-the-counter to prescription. Understanding that alternative solutions exist for managing bodily pain can provide immense relief, especially when considering medication. Being informed about these options can offer the clarity and confidence needed to make well-informed decisions about your health and future.
Call Woodland Recovery Center Today and Explore Your Opioid Addiction Treatment Options
In the case that you or someone you love has an opioid use disorder, seeking out immediate help and support is crucial. The Woodland Recovery Center offers comprehensive and personalized treatment programs for those struggling with opioid addiction.
Our highly trained professionals and therapists work closely together to provide evidence-based therapies, such as medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapy, individual counseling, and group therapy. We also offer holistic practices like yoga and meditation to promote overall well-being and aid recovery.
Our goal is to help individuals overcome their addiction and achieve long-term sobriety. Call us today at 662.222.2989 or contact us online to learn more about our addiction treatment programs and how we can help you meet your recovery needs and goals.
