A List Of All Opioids In The United States
The abuse of opioid drugs is an issue that affects individuals all across America. In order to better understand, and prevent, opioid abuse and addiction, it is highly beneficial to fully comprehend the drugs of abuse. A person may have a prescription and not realize the drug they are using, or abusing, is an opioid medication. These drugs can be very harmful, highly addictive, and even cause overdose. Fortunately, treatment utilizing various behavioral therapies and counseling is available, offering you comprehensive support and care.
How does opioid abuse affect our nation? The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) explains that, “the abuse of and addiction to opioids such as heroin, morphine, and prescription pain relievers is a serious global problem that affects the health, social, and economic welfare of all societies.” The amount of people who abuse opioids worldwide numbers in the millions between 26.4 million and 36 million, approximately.
Abuse isn’t just a troublesome habit, however. With high trends in opioid abuse has come increased deaths due to overdose. The first step in helping to overcome high rates of abuse is raising awareness. In this effort, it may be helpful to know what opioids are, recognize which opioids are in the United States, and the different kinds; and learn how to seek treatment for opioid abuse.
Opioids Defined
Opioids are a class of drugs which bind to opioid receptors in the brain and produce feelings of euphoria, calm, and a state of heightened relaxation. The drugs are derived from an opium compound, such as the poppy seed. Opioids include powerful, illicit, recreational drugs such as heroin and opium, as well as prescription drugs such as morphine, codeine, and fentanyl. Though prescription opioids are usually prescribed legally to treat pain, and can be safe when taken as directed, many have highly addictive properties.
Those who abuse prescriptions may be unaware of the danger they undergo when changing the dose or frequency of their medication, since it is prescribed by a doctor. But the body can become addicted to or form a physical dependence on opioids after only a short time. The drug may also cause harrowing withdrawal symptoms when a person tries to stop abusing it.
Side Effects Of Opioid Use
While opioids work by binding to opioid receptors and producing a feeling of calm and intense pleasure, they may produce some adverse side effects as well. Some of these include confusion, constipation, drowsiness, and nausea. Opioids are typically sought in recreational use for the euphoric feeling of well-being they produce. Those who abuse opioids are often trying to intensify this experience. However, as NIDA explains, “when people tamper with long-acting or extended-release medicines, which typically contain higher doses because they are intended for release over long periods, the results can be particularly dangerous, as all the medicine can be released at one time.” Prolonged abuse can lead to tolerance, physical dependence, addiction, withdrawal symptoms when stopping abuse, or even overdose.
List Of Opioids In The U.S.
Recognizing opioids and their potential harmful side effects, as well as the guidelines for safe usage, may be the most effective way to prevent abuse. Prescription opioids are available in either brand name or generic form. Brand names are listed by trade names and described under their generic names. Generic drugs are listed by drug name and described under their generic name forms. The following is a breakdown of all the prescription opioids in the United States, according to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and NIDA:
