What is Opioid Addiction?

The United States makes up 4.4% of the world’s population but consumes over 80% of the world’s opioids. In 2017, the opioid crisis was declared a nationwide Public Health Emergency By June 2021, synthetic opioids were involved in an estimated 87% of opioid deaths and 65% of all drug overdose deaths. People who use prescription opioids may not perceive any risk because they were prescribed by a health care professional.  However, misused opioid medications may result in serious medical or mental health effects, an opioid use disorder, overdose, or death. 

• What is considered to be an opioid?
• How do people act on opioids?
• What is the most common cause of opioid addiction?
• What are the long-term mental health effects of opioids?
• What are the 4 common opioids?
• Is ibuprofen an opioid?
• Is Tylenol an opioid?
• Who is most likely to get addicted to opioids?
• What organs do opioids affect?

What is considered to be an opioid?

Opioids are a class of drugs that includes illegal substances such as heroin and fentanyl, but there are many legalized forms of opioid drugs as well. Common prescription opioids include: 

• OxyContin (oxycodone)
• Vicodin, Norco, and Lortab (hydrocodone with acetaminophen)
• Percocet (oxycodone with acetaminophen)
• Tramadol
• Codeine
• Morphine
• Methadone
• Demerol (meperidine)

How do people act on opioids?

The effects of opioids can vary depending on a variety of factors, including dosage, intake frequency, and type of opioid. When these drugs are active in the body, a person can feel relaxed and happy and experience a heightened sense of well-being. However, there are adverse side effects as well, which include drowsiness, disorientation, irritability, nausea, constipation, and slowed breathing. 

What is the most common cause of opioid addiction?

Opioid misuse creates a vicious cycle of addiction because the body develops a tolerance to the substance. Opioids trigger the release of endorphins, which are hormones your body emits during pleasurable activities. Endorphins are also the body’s natural painkillers. Although opioids provide significant pain relief and create a powerful sense of well-being, it only lasts a short time. When an opioid dose wears off and your pain returns, you can develop intense cravings for these euphoric and pain-relieving effects. In addition, if a person attempts to stop opioids “cold turkey,” they will experience withdrawal symptoms that propel them to seek further relief. This is how opioid abuse can begin, and it may develop into a serious substance use disorder.  

What are the long-term mental health effects of opioids?

Opioids are highly addictive because they trigger powerful reward centers in your brain. The misuse of opioids causes physical dependence but also has a significant impact on your mental health. The most common long-term psychological effects can include anxiety and depression.

What are the 4 common opioids?

The most common illicit opioids are heroin and fentanyl, but there are many other opioid drugs that are legalized. Prescription opioid medication is widely used for pain management resulting from a medical condition, surgery, or injury. 

The most commonly prescribed opioids include:

• OxyContin (oxycodone)
• Vicodin, Norco, and Lortab (hydrocodone with acetaminophen)
• Percocet (oxycodone with acetaminophen)
• Tramadol

Is ibuprofen an opioid?

No. Ibuprofen, brand name Advil, is in the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This is an over-the-counter medication that’s widely used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and bring down a high fever. Naproxen (Aleve) and aspirin are also NSAIDs.

Is Tylenol an opioid?

No. Acetaminophen, brand name Tylenol, is an over-the-counter, non-opioid analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer) medication.

Who is most likely to get addicted to opioids?

A growing body of research indicates women are more susceptible to opioid addiction. It’s theorized that compared to men, women suffer more chronic pain and seek treatment. Women are more likely to be prescribed opioid medicines, are given higher doses, and use opioids for longer periods of time. 

However, there are many other risk factors that increase susceptibility to opioid addiction, including people who:

• are younger, specifically in their teens or early 20
• have a personal or family history of substance misuse
• have a history of problems with work, family and friends
• use tobacco heavily
• have a criminal history 
• experience depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• take part in risky or thrill-seeking behavior
• have a history of physical or sexual abuse

What organs do opioids affect?

Opioids are powerful drugs for managing pain, but using them for extended periods of time can be dangerous. Long-term opioid use causes significant damage to your body and organs in the following ways:

• Opioids depress the respiratory center of the brainstem. Chronic use slows breathing, which can cause hypoxia, a condition that results when too little oxygen in the brain. Hypoxia can have psychological and neurological effects, including permanent brain damage, coma, or death.

• Renal function is affected by chronic opioid use. It can cause kidney damage or disease.

• Opioids can affect your digestive system and cause nausea and vomiting. They can cause constipation and swelling of your abdomen. 

• Metabolized in the liver, opioids can cause significant liver damage, especially if you use them with acetaminophen or other analgesic painkillers.

Overcome Opioid Addiction at Into Action Recovery

We understand that treating both addiction and mental health is important for effective recovery. If you or a loved one needs help overcoming opioid addiction, we’re here to get you started on your journey to life-long sobriety. 

Call us today at 844-303-3969 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our programs.