Opioid addiction is a serious public health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Opioids are a class of drugs that include both prescription medications and illegal substances, all of which act on the nervous system to relieve pain and produce feelings of euphoria. When used over time, opioids can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Here's what you need to know about opioid addiction, the withdrawal process, and specific opioids: morphine, heroin, codeine, fentanyl, and methadone.
Opioid Addiction Opioid addiction is a chronic medical condition characterized by the compulsive use of opioids, despite harmful consequences. It involves both physical dependence and psychological cravings. Addiction often begins with the use of prescription opioids for pain relief, but can also arise from the use of illegal opioids like heroin. Factors such as genetics, environment, and mental health can increase the risk of developing an addiction. Opioid Withdrawal Withdrawal occurs when a person who is physically dependent on opioids suddenly reduces or stops using them. The symptoms can be severe and resemble a flu-like illness, which can deter individuals from seeking help. While opioid withdrawal is rarely life-threatening, it can be extremely uncomfortable. Common Withdrawal Symptoms
Common Opioids that Cause Substance Use Disorders Morphine Morphine is a powerful prescription opioid used to treat severe pain, often following surgery or for chronic conditions like cancer. It works by binding to receptors in the brain to reduce the perception of pain. Due to its high potential for addiction, morphine should only be used as prescribed. Heroin Heroin is an illegal opioid derived from morphine. It is highly addictive and often used recreationally for its intense euphoric effects. Heroin can be injected, snorted, or smoked, leading to a rapid onset of effects and a high risk of overdose. Codeine Codeine is a milder opioid often found in prescription cough syrups and pain medications. While less potent than morphine, it can still be addictive when used in large doses or over a prolonged period. Fentanyl Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is used medically to manage severe pain, especially in cancer patients, but has also become a major contributor to opioid overdose deaths due to its high potency and risk of being mixed with other street drugs. Methadone Methadone is a long-acting opioid used both for pain relief and in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction. It helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the same "high" as other opioids. Need Help Recovering from Opioid Addiction? Effective treatment for opioid addiction often includes a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and support groups. If you need assistance with opioid addiction, reach out to Wings of Life to begin your road to recovery. Treatment options are available to help you regain control of your life. |
Frequently Asked QuestionsHow long is your program?
Wings of Life offers a 90-day residential program. Graduates of the 90 day program may also be eligible for transition, extended-term and ministry training programs.
Do you accept insurance?
Since Wings of Life is not a medical facility, we are unable to accept insurance.
Who can visit?
Immediate family members are allowed to visit. Immediate family includes legal spouses, children, parents, siblings aunts, uncles, and grandparents. Pastors and positive supporters may participate in visitation once approved by staff.
How much does your program cost?
Wings of Life provides a quality recovery program at an affordable cost. Please call 251-333-4800
to speak with our admissions staff about the cost of the program. Do You provide detox services
No, we do not provide medical detox services. Please seek medical assistance for detox services prior to coming into our program.
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