Opioids (say: oh-pee-oyds) are a kind of drug that are often used for pain control. You can become addicted to opioids, especially if they are not taken as directed by your doctor or if they are taken illegally.
Opioid Addiction
Opioid Addiction
What are opioids?
What is addiction?
Opioid drugs include:
- opium
- codeine
- fentanyl
- heroin
- hydrocodone
- methadone
- morphine
- oxycodone
- paregoric
- sufentanil
Addiction is a disease that affects your brain and your behavior. You have control over your choice to start using drugs, but once you start, the pleasurable effect makes you want to keep using them. Over time, your brain actually changes in certain ways so that a powerful urge to use drugs controls your behavior.
How do I know if I'm addicted?
You might be addicted if you keep craving and using opioids even if the drugs are causing trouble for you. The trouble may be with your health, with money, with work or school or with your relationships with family or friends. Your friends and family may be aware of your addiction problem before you realize it because they notice the changes in your behavior.
What can I do if I'm addicted?
The first step in breaking addiction is realizing that you control your own behavior. The following steps will help you fight your addiction:
- Commit to quitting. Take control of your behavior and commit yourself to fighting your addictions.
- Get help from your doctor. He or she can be your biggest ally, even if you're trying to quit a drug he or she prescribed. Your doctor may be able to prescribe medicine that will help ease your cravings for addictive drug. Talking with your doctor or a counselor about your problems and your drug use can be helpful, too.
- Get support. Contact one of the organizations listed below. These groups are dedicated to helping people who have addictions. They want you to succeed and will give you the tools and support you need to quit and move on with your life. Ask your family and friends for support, too.
More Information
Other Organizations
-
Narcotics Anonymous
818-773-9999
-
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
800-273-8255
Source
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff.
Managing Opioid Addiction with Buprenorphine by by PA Donaher, MD, and C Welsh, MD (American Family Physician May 1, 2006, http://www.aafp.org/afp/20060501/1573.html)
Reviewed/Updated: 11/07
Created: 07/06