Opioids are a class of drugs that act on the nervous system to produce morphine-like effects. They are used to relieve pain and as cough suppressants. Opioids include natural and synthetic compounds, such as heroin, codeine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone. Opioid use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Overdose can cause respiratory depression and death.
The term “opioid” refers to any drug that is derived from opium, which is a natural substance found in the poppy plant. The active ingredient in opium is morphine, which was first isolated in 1803 by German pharmacist Friedrich Sertürner. Morphine is still used today as a pain reliever and cough suppressant. Other opioids include codeine (derived from opium), heroin (a semi-synthetic opioid), oxycodone (a synthetic opioid), hydrocodone (a semi-synthetic opioid), and fentanyl (a synthetic opioid).
Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord known as mu receptors. This action blocks pain signals from being sent to the brain and produces feelings of euphoria or “rush”. Opioid use can lead to tolerance, which means that higher doses are needed over time to achieve the same effect. Dependence occurs when someone needs opioids just to feel normal – without them they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and irritability. Addiction is a chronic relapsing condition characterized by compulsive drug seeking despite negative consequences such as job loss or financial problems caused by spending money on drugs instead of bills or food. People who are addicted often continue using opioids even when they know it’s harming their health or destroying their life because they cannot stop on their own; professional help is needed for recovery.
Overdose occurs when too much of an opioid is taken or when it’s combined with other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax). Symptoms of overdose include slow breathing/respiratory arrest , unconsciousness/coma , pinpoint pupils , cold/clammy skin , weak pulse ,and confusion . If not treated immediately overdose can lead to death due mainly to respiratory depression . Naloxone is a medication that can reverse the effects of an overdose if given right away; it should be kept on hand if someone you know uses opioids regularly .