Prescription Opioids
Prescription opioids can be prescribed by doctors to treat moderate to severe pain but can also have serious risks and side effects. Common types are oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and methadone.
Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pain reliever. It is many times more powerful than other opioids and is approved for treating severe pain, typically advanced cancer pain. Illegally made and distributed fentanyl has been on the rise in several states.
Heroin
Heroin is an illegal opioid. 36 people die every day from an overdose involving heroin in the United States.
“OPIATES” vs. “OPIOIDS”
“TOLERANCE” vs. “DEPENDENCE” vs. “ADDICTION”
Although these terms are often used interchangeably they are different.
Opiates
Refer to natural opioids such as heroin, morphine, and codeine.
Opioids
Refer to all natural, semisynthetic, and synthetic opioids.
OPIOID TOLERANCE
Occurs when a person using opioids begins to experience a reduced response to medication, requiring more opioids to experience the same effect.
OPIOID DEPENDENCE
Occurs when the body adjusts its normal functioning around regular opioid use. Unpleasant physical symptoms occur when medication is stopped.
OPIOID ADDICTION
(Opioid use disorder or OUD) occurs when attempts to cut down or control use are unsuccessful or when use results in social problems and a failure to fulfill obligations at work, school, and home. Addiction often comes after the person has developed opioid tolerance and dependence, making it physically challenging to stop opioid use and increasing the risk of withdrawal.
Source: CDC