There are several dangers of opiates, particularly their highly addictive nature. In the 90s, they were marketed as non-addictive but are now one the leading causes of overdose cases in the United States. Moreover, these overdoses occur when people combine opiates with other drugs such as benzodiazepines. The opioid epidemic has swept the nation and continues to increase as opioids become more available. Consequently, rehab centers have seen an increase in dual substance use disorders in their clients. If you have opiate abuse symptoms, get professional help immediately by finding an opiate abuse rehab center. Above all, your well-being is of utmost importance. Contact the opiate addiction treatment center at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge at 844.442.8673 to begin treatment.
What Is the Difference Between Opioids and Opiates?
Generally speaking, both opioids and opiates are drugs with properties that bind with the body’s opioid receptors on nerve cells. As a result, a powerful pain-killing, sedating, and euphoric feeling affects the user. The main difference is that opioids can be synthetically made in a laboratory, while opiates are naturally derived from specific varieties of the poppy plant. The most common synthetic opioid is Fentanyl. The most common opiates are:
- Morphine
- OxyContin
- Hydrocodone
- Codeine
- Heroin
These drugs have varying effects and are used to treat medical conditions differently. The primary use for opiates is as an instant pain reliever since the drug slows pain signals from reaching the brain. Doctors frequently prescribe opiates such as morphine and codeine after surgery and short-term aftercare. Heroin, however, is an illicit substance that doctors do not prescribe. As such, it is typically available illegally from drug traffickers. You are risking your life when taking opiates outside of legitimate medical reasons as managed by your doctor.
Are Opiates Dangerous?
When you begin taking opiates for pain relief, it’s easy to believe that addiction could never happen to you. However, your body becomes resistant to the opiates’ effects, and you may begin taking higher doses to get that same level of initial high. Consequently, it only takes a few weeks to become dependent on opiates. The higher the dosage, the more susceptible you are to losing control of your opiate use. When taking opiates in higher doses, your body becomes more dependent on the substance. Many people seeking a stronger euphoric effect combine opiate use with other substances such as alcohol and cocaine or even other opiates or opioids. This action can be deadly, putting you at a higher risk of an overdose.
The truth is that opiates are deadly as opioids, and opiate overdose is the number one cause of accidental death. That’s not to be taken lightly. Opiates not only slow down the communication of pain signals to the brain but, when taken in higher doses, can slow your breathing and heart rate. Opiates may be naturally derived but are just as dangerous as any other opioid.
Symptoms of Opiate Addiction
Some symptoms that indicate you may have an opiate addiction include:
- Inability to control your opiate use
- Intense cravings for the effects of opiates
- Taking higher dosages and for longer periods
- Extreme withdrawal when not taking opiates
- Problems in work, home, or school life because of opiate use
- Engaging in risky behavior to obtain opiates
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, don’t wait. Get help today at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge.
Begin Addiction Treatment at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge
Opiates are a highly addictive substance. However, addiction to opiates is common and, ultimately, highly treatable. You can learn about alternative ways to battle addiction with managed care at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge. End opiate use disorder today by calling our treatment center at 844.442.8673 to speak with addiction specialists who will help you start your journey toward healing.
