What Are Opiates: Opiates are one of the most abused classes of drugs. These narcotics might provide the user with an extraordinary amount of pep or may relax them a great deal. Some of the most addicting opiates are prescription pain killers. Today, users and addicts are going to great lengths to secure these types of drugs.  Doctor shopping, theft and prescription forgery are just a few ways people are illegally obtaining these very addictive prescription drugs. 

Examples of Prescription Drug Opiates: Oxycodone, hydrocodone, Oxycontin, and Darvocet are prescription opiates.

Signs of Opiate Addiction: The signs of opiate addiction may differ depending on the user. However, some common things to look for are consistent use of the drug, inappropriate use (the person has no medical need for the drug). The latter may be the case when a person is abusing prescription drugs, though those who actually need the drugs can become an addict as well. Disappearing for hours or appearing “out of it” are also signs.

Dependency on the drugs is also indicative of either addiction or that one is on the road to addiction. When a person is dependent on drugs or any substance, they require an increasing amount of it to experience normal highs.

Withdrawing from family and friends, no longer caring about ones physical appearance, nervousness and depression are also signs of opiate addiction.

Why Do People Become Addicted to Opiates?: Opiates are very addictive. This is partly because they affect endorphin production in the brain. Once a person has become dependent on the drug and is a consistent user, the brain begins to decrease the production of endorphins. Users or addicts continue the use of the drug because of physical dependence that develops.

Persons that use painkillers for legitimate reasons may find that it is difficult to function without these medications because of high levels of pain. Also, because these drugs are physically addicting, it is hard to stop even when an individuals desires to.

Effects of Opiate Addiction: Opiate addiction is similar to any type of drug addiction. Significant opiate use can be damaging to the body and also to ones social, family and professional life. It can be quite disruptive and cause many problems. Addicts are also at risk of overdosing and death.

Causes of Opiate Addiction: Opiate addiction may begin after an individual was prescribed pain medication after an injury or surgery. Because of the addictive nature of the drugs, persons are unable to stop using them even when they recognize that they have a problem. Other addicts tried the drug in order to get high and then found them self addicted to it.

Effects of Opiate Addiction: Opiate addiction can be damaging physically. It can also be quite disruptive. Individuals may not be able to work or function normally. Addiction to opiates can also fracture relationships and break up families.

Complications of Opiate Addiction: Addiction to opiates can cause both illness and death. Injury to the addict can occur not only directly from the drug but also due to accidents while under the influence. Death or harm from an overdose is also always a risk.

Treatment of Opiate Addiction: Opiate addiction can be effectively treated in rehab. This may also require medically supervised detoxification. Individuals may be given methadone while going through detoxification to help curb the severity of the withdrawal symptoms.