Opioids are a class of drugs that are strong depressants and include synthetic opioids such as fentanyl; pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine; the illegal drug heroin; and many others. The use of heroin has been declining for years, but opioid use overall continues to climb to new, unfortunate heights.
Use of opioids, either by themselves or in combination with other drugs, is a major driver of the drug overdose crisis in the United States. The vast majority of overdose deaths in recent years involved illicitly manufactured fentanyl and other potent, synthetic opioids. There are prescription opioids for certain extreme pain patients, and used and prescribed can help manage pain well. However, when it is misused (especially in the case of it not being prescribed), these drugs can be extremely dangerous. The main point of danger is that many kinds of opioids are made “on the streets.” Therefore, there is no precision to these illicit forms of opioids, and batches can more quickly lead to overdose and death.
We have info below to learn more about the dangers of opioids, as well as learning to see the signs of an opioid overdose. Please reach out if you have more questions or need.
*extra source material from NIDA
