Opioid addiction
Opioid Addiction
Opioid addiction (pronunciation: /ˈoʊpiɔɪd əˈdɪkʃən/) is a chronic medical condition. It is caused by the misuse of opioids, a class of drugs that includes the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others.
Etymology
The term "opioid" originates from the Greek word "opion", which means "poppy juice". The suffix "-oid" means "resembling". Thus, "opioid" refers to substances that resemble the natural compounds found in the opium poppy.
Definition
Opioid addiction is a problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. It is characterized by an intense craving for opioids, inability to control or reduce use, persistent use despite negative consequences, and a higher priority given to drug use than other activities and obligations.
Symptoms
Symptoms of opioid addiction include:
- Increased tolerance to opioids
- Withdrawal symptoms when not taking opioids
- Unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control opioid use
- Spending a great deal of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of opioids
- Continued opioid use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by opioids
Treatment
Treatment for opioid addiction often involves a combination of medication, counseling, and support. Medications used in the treatment of opioid addiction include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These medications work by blocking the effects of opioids, reducing cravings, or both.
Related Terms
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