Opioids
What are Opioids?
Opioids are a class of drugs used to relieve pain. They include prescription medications like oxycodone, morphine, and fentanyl, as well as illegal drugs like heroin. Opioids work by reducing pain but can also cause euphoria and are highly addictive, leading to the risk of misuse, dependency, and overdose.
Below is an article from the National institute on drug use about opioids.
Types of Opioids
Prescription opioids are intended for medical use under supervision, typically to manage pain. However, they carry risks of addiction and misuse. Illegal opioids like heroin, on the other hand, are abused for their intense effects and can lead to severe health consequences, including overdose and death. Both types of opioids carry significant risks, particularly when used improperly.
Here are some examples of Prescription opioids:
Although most opioids are prescription, they are often misused or obtained illegally. The only current illegal drugs are Heroin and Fentanyl (illegally manufactured), and other synthetic opioids.
Narcan
Naloxone is a medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of opioid overdose, including life-threatening respiratory depression (slow or stopped breathing). It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids like heroin, fentanyl, and prescription painkillers bind to, effectively reversing the overdose and restoring normal breathing.
Naloxone is often used in emergency situations, such as by first responders or family members of individuals at risk for opioid overdose. It can be administered via injection or as a nasal spray (brand name Narcan). It’s a crucial tool in combating the opioid crisis because it can save lives during an overdose, but it’s important to note that its effects may wear off before the opioids have fully cleared the system, so emergency medical care is still necessary after administration.