Opiates

Opioid dependence

Opioids cause physical and psychological dependence:

Physical dependence – the body adapts to the medication, and if it is stopped, withdrawal symptoms develop.

Psychological dependence – the person becomes unable to resist, because taking opioids becomes necessary for their emotional and psychological comfort.

Short-term and long-term effects:

Worsened perception of pain,

Appearance of a skin rash,

Fatigue,

Diarrhea

Respiratory depression – at high doses, this may lead to a fatal outcome;

Liver and kidney damage;

Worsening of mental health – depression, anxiety, psychotic symptoms;

Social and legal problems:
Some people begin using illicit opioids,
frequently turning to heroin or fentanyl, which are considered the main causes of overdose.

Risk factors

Is a young person (especially a teenager or in their early 20s),

Has family members who have struggled with substance dependence,

Lives in a stressful environment (unemployment, poverty),

Has difficult family or social relationships,

Has experienced physical or sexual abuse,

is experiencing depression, anxiety, or PTSD,

You notice risky behaviors (including heavy alcohol or tobacco use),

Women are at particular risk because:

they more often experience chronic pain,

They are prescribed higher doses and take opioids for longer periods,

There is a higher psychological and physiological tendency toward developing opioid dependence.

What factors can contribute to the development of opioid dependence:

How it often begins: Opioid dependence frequently starts with the misuse of medications prescribed for pain management.

Genetic factors: A genetic predisposition plays an important role.

Social and psychological factors: stress, trauma, depression, and social isolation increase the risk of developing addiction.

How can opioid addiction be prevented?

Use opioids only in cases of absolute necessity (for no more than 3 days).

Always ask your doctor about alternative treatment options.

Never share opioids with others and do not take medications prescribed for someone else.

For chronic pain, explore alternative treatment options (such as physiotherapy, non-opioid medications, and others).

If you are no longer using opioid medications, dispose of them safely.

Do not stop taking opioids without medical supervision, as suddenly stopping them may cause severe withdrawal symptoms.

Treatment requires a comprehensive approach:

Medication therapy: the necessary treatment is selected by an addiction specialist and a psychiatrist.

Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing are effective for managing psychological difficulties.

Social support: the involvement of family and friends, as well as participation in rehabilitation groups, is very important.

Day Clinic

Comprehensive treatment method

The first step is making the decision!

Preparing for your visit with the doctor:

Make a list of all medications you are taking (including both prescribed and non-prescribed substances).

List the symptoms you are experiencing (for example: pain, anxiety, mood changes).

Prepare questions for your doctor, for example:

What is the best way to overcome opioid dependence?

How can I reduce withdrawal symptoms?

Are there any alternative pain relievers?

What methods are available to prevent relapse?

See also

→ Psychiatric consultation for opioid dependence

Source: NIDA — Opioids.