What are the true benefits and risks of opioid consumption? How can opioids be used in a safe way? Discover it here.
Opioids, also referred to as opiates or narcotics, are a category of drugs. These substances are termed psychoactive because they affect the areas of the brain that regulate pain perception to provide pain relief.
The most frequently used opioids are:
In spite of their benefits, opioids must be used with precaution: opioid abuse can have very serious consequences. Canada is currently facing an unprecedented opioid crisis that has already been linked to thousands of deaths. This is an important public health and safety issue.
Opioids or opiates play an essential role in the treatment of severe pain. When used as prescribed by a health professional, this medication is safe and effective in treating acute or chronic pain that is resistant to other treatments.
If they are used the right way, opioids can have a positive impact on the quality of life and autonomy level of many people with otherwise debilitating pain.
Like all prescription drugs, narcotics can cause certain side effects, like:
You're starting treatment with an opioid and are worried or bothered by certain side effects? Talk to your pharmacist for advice on how to mitigate the risks.
Any treatment with a narcotic may, at first, generate a feeling of euphoria, commonly called a high. This feeling can cause susceptible individuals to become addicted. As it fades over time, users may want to regain it by increasing their dosage, altering the product before ingesting it, or buying illicit drugs.
Black-market opioids frequently come from clandestine laboratories. It is, therefore, impossible to be sure of their quality. These dangerous substances can be lethal in certain situations.
Here are some tips to minimize the risks associated with opiate treatment.
The best way to benefit from the pain relief ?? by opioids is to be well informed of the side effects and associated risks.
While the use of opioids for pain relief requires great caution, it is really important not to judge those who use narcotics. Without these medications, many users would lead a less active life and have difficulty functioning everyday. There’s no doubt that opioids have a place in the pain management toolkit.
Consult your pharmacist to learn more about opioids and other medications used to treat pain.
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