Opioid Abuse

Additional symptoms of opioid abuse include drowsiness, vomiting, pinpoint pupils, and itching or flushed skin. Moreover, the misuse of illicit opioids and prescription painkillers can lead to overdose incidents and death. Although an opioid overdose can be reversed through the administration of the opioid antagonist drug naloxone, the window for saving a life is short.

Well-known opioid brand names include Dilaudid, Vicodin, Demerol, and OxyContin. Typically prescribed as painkillers, such drugs often are diverted for opioid abuse. Repeated use of opioids increases the risk of developing a serious drug problem, as opioid abuse quickly leads to opioid addiction. Due to the intense withdrawal symptoms, opioid addiction is difficult to overcome.

Sources: National Institute on Drug Abuse, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Agency