Opioid abuse has become a significant public health crisis, with millions of people affected by addiction and its devastating consequences. These powerful drugs, often prescribed for pain relief, can quickly lead to dependency and addiction if misused.
Understanding the most commonly abused opioids and the risks associated with prescription drug misuse is essential for anyone looking to prevent or address opioid addiction. For those already struggling, an opioid addiction treatment program can provide the necessary support to break free from the cycle of addiction.
Commonly Abused Prescription Opioids
Prescription drug misuse often begins with commonly abused opioids that are readily available through legal prescriptions. While these medications can be safe and effective when used as directed by a healthcare professional, they can be dangerous and addictive when misused. Here are some of the most commonly abused opioids:
Oxycodone
Oxycodone is one of the most widely prescribed opioids for managing moderate to severe pain. It is available under various brand names, including OxyContin, Percocet, and Roxicodone. People who misuse oxycodone may crush and snort the pills or dissolve them in water for injection, seeking a more intense and immediate high. This behavior increases the risk of overdose and other serious health complications.
Hydrocodone
Hydrocodone is another commonly abused opioid, frequently prescribed for pain relief and cough suppression. Hydrocodone’s effects are similar to those of oxycodone, and it carries a high risk of addiction. Prescription drug misuse involving hydrocodone often involves taking larger doses than prescribed or using the drug in ways not intended by a doctor. This can quickly lead to dependency and the need for professional intervention.
Morphine
Morphine is a powerful opioid used to treat severe pain, particularly in hospital settings. While it is less commonly prescribed for outpatient use, morphine is still a significant contributor to opioid abuse. Morphine can be taken orally, injected, or smoked, and it produces intense euphoria when misused. The risk of overdose is high with morphine, especially when combined with other depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.
Fentanyl
Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid, estimated to be 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. It is used medically to treat severe pain, often in cancer patients or those recovering from surgery. However, fentanyl’s potency makes it highly dangerous, and it is responsible for a significant number of opioid-related overdose deaths.
Illicit Opioids and Their Impact
In addition to prescription opioids, several illicit opioids contribute to the ongoing opioid crisis. These drugs are often more dangerous because they are unregulated and can be laced with other substances, increasing the risk of overdose:
Heroin
Heroin is an illegal opioid derived from morphine. It is commonly used by injecting, snorting, or smoking the drug, leading to a rapid and intense high. Heroin is highly addictive and is associated with a wide range of health problems, including the risk of infectious diseases from needle sharing and the potential for fatal overdose. Many individuals who begin their opioid use with prescription drugs eventually turn to heroin because it is cheaper and more accessible.
Illicit Fentanyl
Illicitly manufactured fentanyl has been a major driver of opioid overdose deaths in recent years. Unlike prescription fentanyl, which is used in controlled medical settings, illicit fentanyl is produced and distributed illegally. It is often mixed with other drugs, such as heroin or cocaine, without the user’s knowledge, leading to unintentional overdoses. Because of its extreme potency, even a small amount of illicit fentanyl can be deadly.
Call The Ranch to Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction or prescription drug misuse, don’t wait to seek help. Contact The Ranch at 1.844.876.7680 or visit our website. We are here to help you take the first step toward a healthier, opioid-free life. With the right support, recovery is within reach.
