Opioids & How To Identify If Your Loved One Is Addicted
Opioids are a classification of drug that is typically used to combat lingering pain that typical pain-killing gents such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen cannot aid. Prescription opioids have become a hot topic in the news lately because opioids have been so easily prescribed to sick individuals that they end up with addiction complications, which can be more detrimental than the physical pain they had initially sought treatment for.
Opiate drugs commonly prescribed may include but are not limited to Codeine, Methadone, Oxycodone, Fentanyl and Morphine.
Why Do People Take Opioids?
While the primary function of opioids is to reduce physical pain occurring within the body, opioids are also known to lead to euphoric feelings and improve the mental state of an individual for as long as the drug is active in the person’s system.
Each year in Canada, the total of opioid-related deaths increases, which is the cause of grave concern. It also leads us to be cautious of this epidemic and keep a close eye on our loved ones and to look out for warning signs that they may be dealing with opioid abuse. The warning signs can be difficult to notice at first because many addicts do not become addicted for recreational purposes and often find excuses for their continuation of opioid use as recommended by their doctor or healthcare practitioner.
Warning Signs of Opioid Abuse
There are warning signs to look out for if you know someone has been using opioids excessively:
- They may appear extremely contented and come across as upbeat and cheerful a short time after taking their drug
- As soon as the euphoric feelings subside, they may experience a feeling of exhaustiveness or calmness
- They appear to be disorientated and perplexed
- Their pupils are noticeably smaller, and their eyes are red
In some cases, opioid use can often lead to infections of the skin and digestion concerns such as constipation and vomiting.
Individuals that are addicted to opioids also tend to try to cover up their addiction as to not feel ostracized or embarrass themselves or their families. Some common behavioural traits of a person addicted to opiates include
- Disassociation from plans & events they had previously been engaged with or showed an interest in attending
- Disinterest in hobbies and pastimes that they once used to really enjoy
- Emotional tantrums of anger or sadness over small, inconsequential reasons
- They stop caring about critical facets of their everyday life such as quitting their job, displaying a lack of interest in going to work, or quitting school
- As an opioid addict grows more immune to the effects of their drug of choice, they need a stronger prescription to get them high which can lead to the addict stealing drugs, stealing money & doctor hopping in hopes of having another doctor prescribe them opioids.
Getting Help
We understand the turmoil that families and friend’s experience when a loved one is dealing with opioid abuse. This is why it is incredibly important for doctors and healthcare practitioners to fully understand a patient’s needs and the healthiest, most efficient way to help their patients. Here at PCOMS, we are extremely cautious when dealing with opioids to avoid these situations altogether and stress anyone dealing with opioid addiction to seek help immediately.
If you or a loved one need help or more information, please consult one of the following resources
