Opiates - The Dreaded Controlled Substances Drugs
Opiates are the name for many groups of narcotic pain relievers made from the opium poppy plant. Some of those narcotics are: Methadone, Codeine, Heroin, Morphine, Dilaudid, Oxycontin and other.
Opiates groups of drugs are frequently used to relieve moderate to severe pain, and sometimes, some doctors may prescribe some as cough suppressant or for maintenance therapy in addiction. Since these drugs are very potent and powerful they may be habit-forming and may lead to addiction if not properly used or administered. This is one reason why some Opiates drugs are regulated under the Controlled Substances Act. Some of the commonly used opiates include OxyContin, morphine, codeine, Fentanyl, Darvocet, heroin, methadone, Lortab, Norco and Dilaudid.
Side Effects:
Common side effects of opiates includes constipation, sedation, slight euphoria, upset stomach, pupil constriction, hallucination, sweating, fatigue, tremor, sleeplessness, depression, extreme irritability, muscle spasms, delirium, confusion and sweating. These side effects are usually felt during the first few days of taking in opiates since the body is still adjusting. Medical attention is recommended if patients using opiates experience serious adverse effects like severe respiratory depression, stupor or confusion, having clammy skin, coma, cardiac arrest and circulatory collapse.
Because of this medication's power, withdrawal from the drug is considered a painful and a long process, sometimes even resulting to permanent impairment of the heart, brain and the lungs. Withdrawal in some cases may even lead to death. Some of the identified withdrawal symptoms include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Aching limbs
- Severe depression
- Increasing panic
- Uncontrollable diarrhea
- Abdominal Cramping
- Muscle Aches
- Insomnia
- Agitation
- Uncontrollable Yawning
- Runny Nose
- Uncontrollable Anxiety
Some patients are required to undergo detoxification procedures to lessen the withdrawal syndrome.
Dosage given to patients varies and it should be taken with full medical care. The side effects, the withdrawal symptoms, overdosage and misuse of opiates can lead to death.
If you are taking opiates it is best not to drink alcoholic beverages or eat food containing alcohol as they may bring about severe adverse reactions. It is also advised that patients consult with their doctor first if they are about to take other pain killers or other type of prescription drugs, herbal supplements, etc. since they might interact with the component of opiates.
Seek medical advice prior to taking opiates because misuse of the said drug can pose a threat to your life.