Opiates are a class of drugs that are commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain. However, these drugs can also be highly addictive and lead to opiate addiction if not taken as prescribed. Opiate addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. When left untreated, it can have devastating consequences on individuals and their loved ones. Treating opiate addiction is possible—with the right support and resources, individuals struggling with opiate addiction can overcome their dependency and regain control of their lives.
If you or someone you know is struggling with opiate addiction, it is essential to seek help as soon as possible. An opiate rehab in Lexington, KY, can support participants through the recovery process and provide the necessary tools and skills to overcome addiction.
What Are Opiates?
Opiates, a subset of opioids, are natural or slightly modified versions of opium, a compound found in the opium poppy. Derived directly from the poppy plant, opiates have been used for centuries for their powerful pain-relieving and euphoric properties.
However, it’s important to understand the difference between opiates and opioids. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they don’t exactly mean the same thing. Opiates are naturally derived from the opium poppy, whereas opioids are a broader term that includes opisates, synthetic opioids (made entirely in a lab), and semi-synthetic opioids (a hybrid of natural and synthetic).
Some of the most commonly abused opiates include
- Heroin – A highly addictive and illegal opiate.
- Morphine – Often used in hospital settings for severe pain.
- Codeine – A less potent painkiller often found in prescription cough syrups.
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin) – Commonly prescribed for moderate to severe pain.
- Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet) – Another frequently prescribed opiate for pain management.
Remember, while these medications can be beneficial when used as prescribed, misuse can quickly lead to addiction. Substance abuse treatment in Lexington can support people in Kentucky who are working to overcome their addiction to opiates.
Understanding Opiate Addiction
Opiate addiction is a chronic and relapsing brain disease that affects the reward, motivation, and memory pathways. The intense pleasure and relief from pain experienced by taking an opiate can quickly lead to dependency when used continuously. With regular use, the brain’s reward system becomes less sensitive to natural stimuli, and individuals may require larger doses of opiates to achieve the same effect.
As tolerance increases, individuals may become physically dependent on opiates. This means that when they stop using or significantly reduce their use, they will experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal can be uncomfortable, making it challenging to quit without professional help.
An intensive outpatient program in Kentucky can provide the necessary support and resources for individuals to manage their withdrawal symptoms and overcome opiate addiction. These programs offer a combination of individual therapy, group counseling, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and other evidence-based practices to help participants achieve lasting recovery.
Reach Out to an Opiate Rehab in Lexington, KY
Opiate addiction can feel overwhelming and isolating, but you are not alone. Seeking help from a reputable opiate rehab in Lexington, KY, is the first step towards recovery. These programs provide personalized treatment plans to address each individual’s unique needs and support them through every stage of their recovery journey.
