Opiate Addiction

There are dozens of types of opiates and opioid medications that have been derived from the seeds of a poppy plant or synthesized in a lab. Poppy seeds contain both morphine and codeine, among other substances. Synthetic forms of opioids include hydrocodone, oxycodone, hydromorphone and heroin. The chemical structure of the drugs may vary, however, the way the body and brain are affected are identical.

Opiate medications are used for a wide variety of medical reasons such as controlling anxiety and when taken in high doses, the drugs produce a sense of euphoria. Opiates can be snorted, smoked, taken orally or injected, which provides the user with a stronger effect. Using a needle to inject an opiate medication can result in infections, respiratory distress, an overdose or death. Misuse or overuse of opiate medications can lead to an opiate addiction.

A person with an opiate addiction will intentionally take more of the drug, try over and over again to cut back or discontinue, and spend a lot of time participating in use and recovering from the effects of the drugs. Some people with an addiction to opiates continue to use despite the risk of adverse physical or psychological harm. Abuse of opiates is a very real epidemic that has steadily increased over the past ten years and shows no signs of slowing down or letting up.

There are certain signs and symptoms which can be directly attributed to an opiate addiction. However, different opiates produce different effects which can result in variations among users. As a general, the following signs are indicative of an addiction to opiates:

• Seeking seclusion
• Long, unexplainable absences
• Lying and stealing, possibly other illegal or uncharacteristic behavior
• Involvement in illegal activities
• Deteriorating family, personal and professional relationships
• Obvious intoxication, being incoherent or mental clouding
• Changes in mood, behavior and attitude
• Decrease in work or school performance

Another obvious sign of opiate or narcotic abuse is the appearance of track or needle marks on the upper arms of a user. These marks can turn into skin abscesses and leave substantial scars that are readily visible. People who use opiates intravenously often wear long sleeves, even in warm weather to hide the scarring.

An addiction to opiates is one of the most complicated and difficult to treat, and also one of the easiest to fall victim to. Opiates are one of the most commonly prescribed prescription medications which directly relates to the high incidence of abuse and addiction.

An addiction to opiate drugs can cause significant problems that permeate every single area of the user’s life. To successfully combat the addiction, a user may need to undergo a detoxification program and seek follow-up treatment at a qualified rehabilitation facility. The program sought should include addressing the addiction as a whole, as well as any underlying issues. Through therapy, counseling and drug awareness education, a person can successfully conquer an addiction to opiate drugs.

If you or someone you love has an addiction to opiates, there is help available. Please contact us today for further assistance.

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