What Exactly are Opiates?
An opiate is a type of drug that is naturally derived from the opium poppy plant. Opiates are some of the earliest pain-relief drugs, like morphine and codeine, popular during the Civil War to help with severe pain. Opiates work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord to reduce the perception of pain while also producing feelings of euphoria, which can lead to misuse and addiction.
Common brand names of opiates often prescribed by doctors include:
- Morphine: Available under brand names like MS Contin, Kadian, and Roxanol.
- Codeine: Often found in combination products like Tylenol with Codeine (Tylenol #3 and Tylenol #4).
- Hydrocodone: Available as Vicodin, Norco, and Lortab, usually combined with acetaminophen.
- Oxycodone: Marketed as OxyContin, Percocet (combined with acetaminophen), and Percodan (combined with aspirin).
- Hydromorphone: Known by brand names such as Dilaudid and Exalgo.
Doctors prescribe these medications for moderate to severe pain management. However, they have a high potential for misuse and addiction.
Opiates vs. Opioids
An opiate is not the same as an opioid, even though the terms are often used interchangeably. Opiates refer specifically to substances that come directly from the opium poppy plant, including drugs like morphine, codeine, and heroin. These substances have been used for pain relief for many years and remain part of medical care in certain situations, though they carry a high risk for dependence.
Opioids are a broader category that includes both natural opiates and lab-created substances designed to produce similar effects. This group includes semi-synthetic medications such as hydrocodone and oxycodone, which are commonly prescribed after surgery or injury. It also includes fully synthetic drugs like fentanyl and methadone. While these medications can serve a medical purpose, their potency and impact on the brain increase the risk of misuse and physical dependence.
How Addictive are Opiates?
The regular use of opiates can lead to tolerance, where the user requires increasingly larger doses to achieve the same euphoric effect. This escalation exacerbates the risk of addiction and overdose. According to a report from the State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System (SUDORS), between July 2019 and December 2022, Colorado recorded 5,210 drug overdose deaths, 98.1% of which were unintentional. Nearly 75% of these deaths involved an opioid.
Opiates are highly addictive substances due to their profound impact on the brain’s reward system. When a person consumes an opiate, the drug binds to opioid receptors in the brain, leading to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of pleasure. These pleasurable feelings often lead to repeated use.
Slowly, the brain begins to change. It starts to rely on these external substances to maintain normal function, diminishing the effectiveness of its natural dopamine production. This dependency creates a cycle of use and withdrawal, making it challenging for individuals to stop using opiates without professional help.
Signs and Symptoms of Opiate Addiction
Opiate addiction is a serious condition that can develop quickly due to the potent effects of these drugs on the brain and body. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of opiate use disorder is crucial for early intervention and treatment. Opiates, whether derived naturally from the opium poppy or synthesized in a lab, have a high potential for abuse and dependency. Here are some key indicators that someone might be struggling with opiate addiction:
Physical Symptoms:
- Noticeable euphoria or intense relaxation
- Constricted (pinpoint) pupils
- Drowsiness or heavy sedation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Itching or flushed skin
- Constipation
- Slurred speech
- Decreased coordination
- Respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing)
Behavioral Symptoms:
- Increased secrecy or isolation
- Doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors to obtain prescriptions)
- Sudden financial problems or stealing to fund drug use
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Unexplained absences or frequent trips to the bathroom
- Engaging in risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence
Psychological Symptoms:
- Mood swings, including increased irritability or anxiety
- Depression or a general sense of apathy
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Cravings for the drug and preoccupation with obtaining and using it
Recognizing these signs can help individuals and their families seek help sooner. Early intervention and rehab treatment improve outcomes and help individuals reclaim their lives from addiction. Opiate use disorder is a medical condition that requires a combination of medical detox, evidence-based therapies, and continued support to achieve and maintain sobriety.
What to Expect from Opiate Detox
Opiate detox in Boulder, Colorado is often the starting point for stopping opioid use safely. The detox process involves clearing opiates from the body. Withdrawal symptoms are unpredictable based on substance use habits and overall health. While withdrawal symptoms start off manageable, they quickly increase in severity and frequency. Some symptoms can be quite intense without medical supervision.
Opioid addiction treatment includes medically supervised detox as part of a comprehensive care plan. Individuals can expect round-the-clock supervision to ensure safety and comfort. Our medical team closely monitors patients throughout the process while helping them manage their withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications.
Common Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal from opiates often affects both the body and the mind, sometimes at the same time. Physical symptoms people usually experience are muscle aches, sweating, and frequent yawning as the body begins to adjust. A runny nose, tremors, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are also common during detox, and the intensity can vary from person to person.
Alongside these physical symptoms, psychological withdrawal also occurs. Anxiety and agitation can make it difficult to feel settled, while insomnia disrupts rest. People can also experience strong cravings, unpredictable mood swings, and depression. Most physical symptoms peak within 5 to 7 days before fully subsiding over the next week or two. Psychological withdrawal lingers longer, which is why continued opiate addiction treatment in Colorado is necessary post-detox.
Why Choose Our Colorado Detox for Opiates
Our Colorado detox for opiates incorporates medical, evidence-based, and holistic methodologies treating the body, mind, and spirit for whole-person healing. Treatments are tailored to the specific needs of every person. Care plans could include group and individual therapy, medication management, relapse prevention planning, and aftercare programming. We also offer virtual rehab options for continued care and support beyond initial treatment.
Beyond detox, programming at Flatirons Recovery provides access to all levels of care, including inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient. We also have an evening IOP in Boulder. Our medical professionals help prepare individuals for ongoing care and transitioning to the appropriate treatment after completing detox. We can even assist with sober living for those without a stable home environment. Our full spectrum of care ensures we are with you every step, from initial detox to aftercare and alumni support.
Break Free From Addiction With Opiate Detox in Boulder, Colorado
If you or a loved one is struggling with opiate addiction, starting detox can feel difficult, but it is an important step to regain control over your life. The team at Flatirons Recovery understands how scary it can be, but you are not alone. We are here to help you overcome opiate substance use in a caring, safe, and supportive environment. Our opiate detox in Boulder, Colorado addresses physical and psychological withdrawal with medical supervision and medication-assisted approaches. Contact us today to speak with an admissions specialist.
