Opioid Use Disorder
What is opioid use disorder?
What causes opioid addiction?
Opioids directly stimulate the human brain’s reward system, which triggers the release of a chemical called dopamine. This creates a powerful feeling of pleasure and well-being, which can lead to a strong desire to repeat the experience – even at the cost of negative consequences.
Opioid Use Disorder Symptoms
The primary symptoms of OUD include:
- Increasingly heavy, frequent, unhealthy or risky use
- Physical dependence, which results in withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking the drug
- Uncontrollable cravings to take the drug
These symptoms can interfere with your required daily activities, such as taking care of responsibilities at home, work or school.
Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
The symptoms of opioid withdrawal occur at various times after a person with OUD stops taking opioids. These symptoms can make you feel like you’re near death, but you’re actually not.
Early symptoms of withdrawal include:
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches
- Runny nose
- Sweating
- Watery eyes
- Yawning
Later symptoms of withdrawal include:
- Diarrhea
- Dilated pupils
- Goosebumps
- Nausea
- Stomach cramping
- Vomiting
When withdrawal symptoms appear and how long they last can depend on the type of opioid being used.
- Short-acting opioids (e.g., heroin): Symptoms start eight to 24 hours after last use and last four to 10 days.
- Long-acting opioids (e.g., methadone): Symptoms start 12-48 hours after last use and last 10-20 days.
How is opioid use disorder diagnosed?
A diagnosis begins with talking to your primary care provider. They may refer you to a specialist who will ask you a series of questions. Your answers will be kept completely confidential and will help the specialist determine if you have opioid use disorder.
Opioid Addiction Treatment
Opioid use disorder can be successfully treated using medication assisted treatment (MAT). MAT uses a combination of prescription medication, behavioral therapy and other services.
Prevention of Opioid Use Disorder
If you’re taking opioids prescribed by your physician for relief from moderate to severe pain, there are steps you should take to use them safely, such as:
- Take the medications as prescribed.
- Use them only on a limited basis.
- Try to wean off them as soon as you can.
- Advocate for yourself by talking to your physician about potentially using alternatives to opioids.
- Talk to your primary care provider if you’re concerned that you’re struggling with opioid use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the leading treatment of opioid use disorder?
Buprenorphine is one of the leading, most evidence-based opioid treatments, and it’s available through the Medication Assisted Treatment Program, a service of OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center.
How long does it take to get addicted to opioids?
It depends on the person, the type of opioid being used, the amount and frequency of their use, family history of substance use disorder, and many other factors. While it’s fine for most people to take a prescription opioid for a day or two, addiction can happen quickly – usually within a couple of weeks. Staying alert and knowing the symptoms of OUD can help you know if you need to seek medical help.
How do opioids make you feel?
Opioids are depressants that slow breathing and relieve physical pain. They can make you feel euphoric (high), calm, drowsy and relaxed.
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