opioids

An opioid is a chemical that works by binding to opioid receptors, which are found in the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. Common opioids include OxyContin, Vicodin, and fentanyl. The analgesic effects of opioids are due to decreased perception of pain, decreased reaction to pain, and increased pain tolerance. Physical dependence can develop with ongoing administration of opioids, leading to a withdrawal syndrome with abrupt discontinuation. Opioids can produce a feeling of euphoria, which can lead to recreational use of opioids.



Articles Related to opioids

Emergency Department Treatment of Nonmedical Narcotic Use

Narcotic pain relievers provide relief and have important medical benefits. When they are used other than for their medical intent, they can have serious health consequences. They are often taken without medical supervision, in quantities other than prescribed and sometimes in combination with alcohol...
July 1st, 2010 | Research & News | Read More

Study Examines Treatment for Prescription Opioid Dependence

At the American Psychiatric Association 2010 Annual Meeting, a study was presented that found that people addicted to prescription opioids (such as Vicodin and OxyContin) are more prone to relapse after a shorter treatment course. The study, the largest treatment study ever conducted for prescription...
May 25th, 2010 | Addiction Treatment | Read More

Opiate Withdrawal

It was established in 2008 that in the past year, approximately 282,000 people above the age of 12 were dependent on or abused heroin. Additionally, 1,716,000 people over the age of 12 were dependent on or abused pain relievers.
February 9th, 2010 | Prescription Drug Addiction | Read More

Suppressing Glial Cell Activity Reduces Effects of Morphine on Rats

Glial cells (which are non-neuronal cells that make up the supportive tissue and participate in signal transmission in the nervous system) have recently been shown to help mediate the effects of opioid drugs such as morphine, including analgesia (pain suppression), tolerance, and dependence—effects...
December 17th, 2009 | Addiction Treatment | Read More

Opioid-Related Deaths Continue to Rise in Canada

Opioids and the long-acting oxycodone appears to be a popular choice in Ontario, Canada. According to a new study in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal) and a release in Science Daily, deaths from opioids in Ontario have doubled since 1991 and the addition of oxycodone has resulted in a five-fold...
December 9th, 2009 | Prescription Drug Addiction | Read More

The Dangers of Tramadol: Two Stories

Tramadol is a synthetic opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain, and is available in both injectable and oral forms. It can produce euphoria in many users, and the high is similar to opioids like morphine and heroin, but not as intense. This can lead to physical and mental dependence and severe...
July 15th, 2009 | Prescription Drug Addiction | Read More