Opiates are normally prescription painkiller drugs that have a high rate of addiction among users, and are normally prescribed by medical professionals for the relief of mild to acute pain. Some example of opiate painkillers include: Codeine, Lorcet, Lortab, Methadone, MSContin, Morphine, OxyContin, Percodan, Percocet and Vicodin, all of which lead to tolerance in the user and the increased risk of prescription drug addiction. While people use opiates for varied reasons, most people are prescribed these medications because they have legitimate problems with pain.
Users of opiate prescription painkillers have been known to develop both a physical and mental dependence on the drugs in as little as just a few weeks of use. When users become addicted to prescription painkillers, finding and using the drug tends to be one of the main focuses of day to day living.
Psychologically speaking, opiates provide a tranquil and euphoric effect, or when injected can provide a “rush” as the drug circulates through the body. Some abusers may combine opiates with a stimulant, which is called “speed balling.” Psychological dependence is inevitable with continued use of opiates.
The physical side effects of opiates depend upon which drug is used, it’s dosage and how the prescription painkiller is administered (orally, by injection, etc.). Opiates drugs can slow breathing, heart rate and brain activity. They can also decrease appetite, thirst and sexual desire.
Individuals with opiate painkiller addiction, who abruptly stop using the drug experience withdrawal symptoms four to six hours following the last dose. Symptoms include uneasiness, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, chills, sweating, nausea, runny nose and eyes, irritability, weakness, tremors and insomnia. The intensity of these symptoms depends on how much of the drug was taken, how often and for how long. These symptoms are usually strongest 24 to 72 hours after onset and can persist for seven to 10 days.
