What Are Opioids?
Opioids are a type of drug used to alleviate one’s pain. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH), “Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others.” Prescription opioid medications are considered controlled substances, and although they have highly addictive qualities, are safe when used for a short period of time, under the direct supervision of a medical professional. Important information regarding medication (e.g., controlled substances) that is regulated by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) includes the potency, the expiration date, additives and ingredients, and the origin of the medication. All information shared regarding illicit drugs such as heroin, as well as illegally sold medications is provided solely at the discretion of the retailer. This exponentially increases one’s risk of overdose. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) asserts “opioid-involved overdose deaths rose significantly from 46,802 deaths in 2018 to 49,860 in 2019.” Due to the fact that regulated opioids are commonly used in the medical field, their accessibility has grown exponentially over the years, which some believe has contributed to the rise of opioid abuse and addiction.
How Do They Work?
Opioids work by reducing one’s perception of pain. When opioid medications are ingested they attach to opioid receptors, which are located in one’s brain, spinal cord, gastrointestinal tract, and other organs in one’s body. It is not uncommon for an individual to experience a sense of euphoria when opioids are present in one’s system, as opioids also affect the reward center in one’s brain. When an individual uses illicit opioids, uses prescribed opioids in greater doses than recommended, mixes opioids with other drugs and/ or alcohol, or ingests opioids by way of a method other than intended (e.g., crushes pills and snorts them) he or she raises the risk of overdose and developing other possible medical complications. Further, excessive abuse of opioids can lead to changes in how one’s brain functions.
Receive Treatment with Annandale in Pasadena?
Annandale Behavioral Health is a private wellness center located in the beautiful hills of Pasadena, CA. Our center provides the ideal environment for guests to reconnect with nature while receiving a premium and personalized treatment. At Annandale, we honor each person’s individuality and have a core belief that everyone is capable of achieving true wellness. We understand that in order to heal, every person in recovery deeply benefits from a customized and tailored treatment plan, which we carefully develop for each of our guests. Our multidisciplinary clinical team is made up of highly regarded psychiatrists, physicians, therapists, nursing, and support staff.
Annandale Behavioral Health offers a full continuum of care, including medically supervised detox, stabilization, residential treatment, and aftercare services. We are here to support you every step of the way to help you learn how to lead a healthy, authentic, and fulfilling life that both promotes and supports true wellness.
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regard to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction, please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. Our admissions team is available to answer any general questions regarding substance abuse, addiction, mental health issues, treatment, and/or specific questions about our program here at Annandale Behavioral Health. We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we might best be able to help you or your loved one in the recovery process. Feel free to reach us by phone at 855-778-8668 or through our contact form. We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
