Opioids: Uses, Effects, and Risks

Understanding Opioids

Opioids are medications prescribed by doctors primarily for their pain-relieving properties.

How Opioids Work

Mechanism of Action:

• Opioids work on receptors in the body in two main ways:
• Hyper-polarization: Reduces the likelihood of pain signals being transmitted.
• Neurotransmitter Inhibition: Blocks the release of pain-causing neurotransmitters to the brain.

This inhibitory effect helps to relieve pain but also contributes to their addictive nature.

Managing Opioid Use

Prescription and Addiction:

• Opioids should be taken strictly as prescribed to avoid misuse and addiction.
• If addiction is suspected, patients should seek advice from their GP for appropriate support.

Commonly Known Opioids

Well-Known Opioids:

• Heroin: Notoriously addictive and illicitly used.
• Fentanyl, Oxycodone: Frequently abused opioids.
• Others prescribed for severe pain relief include codeine, hydrocodone, and morphine.

Medical Guidance and Alternatives

Doctor's Responsibility:

• Doctors play a crucial role in guiding patients on safe opioid use and providing necessary referrals for addiction treatment.
• Recent advancements have introduced drugs like methadone and buprenorphine to aid in combating opioid abuse.

In recent years, medical professionals have become more cautious in prescribing opioids unless absolutely necessary, aiming to mitigate potential misuse and addiction.