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What is opioid dependency?

Opioid dependence with withdrawal is a dangerous and potentially deadly condition that requires long term drug abuse treatment and care. With a full commitment to the right drug addiction therapy, patients can expect a full recovery.

Opioid dependency is recognized as a chronic brain disorder that is caused by using opiate-based drugs such as fentanyl, OxyContin®, morphine, oxycodone, opium, heroin and others.

Opioid addiction can happen to anyone, regardless of whether they are taking prescribed medications or obtaining and using them illegally. Over time, people become physically dependent on these drugs as the body becomes accustomed to their presence.

What happens in the brain

Prolonged use of opiates can lead to nerve damage within the brain that causes cells to stop producing their own opiates—natural painkillers known as endorphins. Without them, the body loses its ability to stop or mask pain, leading to a physical dependence on opiates as an external supply source. This leads to addiction.

Common signs and symptoms of opioid dependence

Opioid dependence shows up in behavioral, physical, cognitive (mental), or psychosocial symptoms that may include some or all of the following:

Behavioral Symptoms

Withdrawal from friends and family members
Unprovoked anger
Association with a new peer group
Dramatic change in appearance, including clothing, weight, and personal hygiene
Lying about one’s whereabouts and engaging in other deceptive acts
Unexplained absences from work
Unexplained decline in performance at work
Changes in financial status (suddenly having no money, asking to borrow or being suspected of stealing from friends, family members, or colleagues)

Physical Symptoms

Impaired motor coordination
Shallow breathing and slowed heart rate
Itchiness
Delayed reflexes or response times
Apparent numbness to physical pain
Unexplained rashes

Cognitive Symptoms

Memory problems
Lack of concentration or focus
Excessive sleepiness
Impaired problem-solving skills
Poor spatial relations
General confusion
Obsession with acquiring and using drugs
Inability to plan or follow through on plans

Psychosocial Symptoms

Unpredictable mood swings, including a tendency to quickly become angry
Panic and anxiety
Episodes of depression
Paranoia

Withdrawal Symptoms

Anytime an individual who has been abusing opiates for a prolonged time suddenly discontinues their use, withdrawal symptoms have the potential to occur. Some of the most common symptoms of opiate withdrawal may include:

Cravings to use
Nausea
Cramping in the stomach
Sweating
Chills or goose bumps
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Irritation or agitation
Anxiety
Muscle aches
Shakes or trembling
Insomnia
Dilated pupils
Bone pain

Opioid Dependency Treatment

MAT (Medication Assisted Treatment) for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) can take many forms and often includes:

Suboxone (Buprenorphine-Naloxone)
Sublocade (Buprenorphine injection)
Naltrexone
Vivitrol (Naltrexone long acting injection)

Programs

Getting treatment

Direct2Recovery uses clinically proven drug rehabilitation treatment methods that are carefully prescribed according to the patient’s individual needs. We will make a medical assessment based on your current health conditions and determine a course of treatment that will best address your dependency.

Thankfully, there is hope. We have over 10 years of experience that proves you can recover. Compassionate, comprehensive drug abuse treatment is available through Direct2Recovery. Call and make an appointment for your personal assessment today.