EXPERIENCING ISSUES WITH
Opioid use disorder?
Opioid use disorder is a chronic brain disease characterized by compulsive use of opioids even when it has negative consequences. Common opioids include hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin and Percocet), codeine, heroin, and fentanyl.
Need immediate help?
If you or someone you know is in danger of hurting themselves or someone else — or if there’s any type of health emergency — please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
How opioid use disorder might show up
Opioids are a specific class of drugs—including medications—that help treat pain. Commonly prescribed opioids include oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and methadone. With longtime use, they can cause dependence and even worsen pain.
Opioid use disorder can cause a variety of physical and behavioral changes. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Drowsiness, constipation, nausea and vomiting, itching, slowed breathing, confusion, seizures, coma
- Taking medications in larger doses or for longer than prescribed
- Going to multiple doctors to get opioids (also known as doctor shopping)
- Avoiding responsibilities at work or home
- Isolating from friends and family
- Continuing to use medications despite symptoms or other consequences such as legal issues
Need immediate help?
If you or someone you know is in danger of hurting themselves or someone else — or if there’s any type of health emergency — please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Fentanyl, a strong synthetic opioid often used to in the treatment of cancer patients, and heroin are also classified as opioids.
Opioid use disorder may require medically monitored detoxification or withdrawal management. Withdrawal symptoms include cravings, sweating, nausea, shallow breathing, and slurred speech. Individuals struggling with opioid use can seek residential treatment and outpatient treatment, along with a combination of medication management and therapy.
Frequently asked questions about opioid use disorder
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Not everyone who takes opioids will become addicted. Risk factors can include family history of substance use and/or mental health disorders, existing mental health issues, history of chronic pain, environment, and even age or sex.
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Opioid overdose is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a person takes too much of an opioid drug. It can lead to slowed breathing, which can cause a person to stop breathing completely and die. Other signs of opioid overdose include small, pinpoint pupils; pale, clammy skin; blueish lips and fingernails; feeling very sleepy or unable to be awakened; vomiting; or seizures. Call 911 immediately if a person exhibits any of these symptoms. You can also begin CPR if the person has stopped breathing or if breathing is very weak and treat the person with naloxone to reverse opioid overdose.