Opium is no longer a medically used treatment for pain relief. You should never take any opioid-based drug for the treatment of pain without consulting a doctor. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to find rehab centers that will help you put an end to your opium abuse.

Opium ≠ Pain Medication

Because opium is the natural substance that many pain relieving opioid medications come from, some people believe the drug to be a safe and effective way to treat pain. However, because it is habit-forming and not medically sanctioned for this purpose, you should never attempt to use it to treat yourself.

According to the National Library of Medicine, you must “always take narcotics as prescribed.” Currently, opium is not a prescription medication for the treatment of pain, so it is unsafe to take for this purpose.

If you have been taking opium without consulting a doctor and in order to treat pain, you are putting yourself in a very dangerous position.

The Risks of Opium Use

Opium is a natural substance, and because of this, many people do not realize how dangerous it is. Unfortunately, it is extremely potent, and those who use it without realizing its intensity are likely to become addicted to it.

While individuals will experience “the relief of physical pain” when using opium, the Drug Enforcement Administration states that they will also encounter “a euphoric rush, followed by relaxation,” which is very similar to the high associated with heroin use.

Confusion and dizziness are side effects of regular opium use.

In addition, regular opium use can lead to a number of side effects, including:

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Dry mucous membranes
• Confusion
• Stomach problems
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Mood swings
• Dependence
• Tolerance
• Addiction
• Overdose
• Death

Because any individual who uses opium relieve pain––or for any other reason––is not being treated medically with the drug, there is a strong likelihood they will become addicted, dependent, and tolerant it its effects, causing them to continue to abuse the drug in higher and higher doses.

The drug is not considered safe for pain relief treatment, not just because it causes many problematic side effects, but also because a doctor would never recommend it for this purpose. This means you would be using it illicitly, which will only lead to more issues.

Why Isn’t Opium Used Medically?

Like heroin, opium is an extremely addictive and potent substance that was once used medically to treat pain and other issues but has since been found to be problematic and dangerous for this purpose.

Treating yourself with opium is not a safe way to manage your pain. If you are suffering from some degree of physical pain, the only safe way to receive treatment with a pharmacological option is to talk to your doctor and to utilize the medically recommended medication prescribed to you.

Opium is Dangerous and Treatment is Necessary

If you have been taking opium for pain or to get high, you have been abusing the drug and will likely require professional rehab treatment in order to recover. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to find safe, reliable treatment options and to receive advice on which program is best for your particular needs.

The Dangers of Using Opium Medicine

The abuse of opium, however infrequent, is always dangerous, as it could lead to many problematic and even deadly consequences. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to find rehab centers where you can be treated for opioid abuse and addiction.

Opioid Abuse is Dangerous

No matter what, the illegal, recreational use of opioid drugs is always risky and could possibly put you and those you love in danger in a number of ways. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, opium is a “highly addictive” drug that can cause many psychological, physical, and behavioral side effects.

Despite being a natural substance, opium can still create many issues for those who abuse it, and this is why it is listed as a Schedule II substance. Even if you believe your use of the drug is too infrequent to be dangerous, there are still a number of issues that may occur.

Opium Abuse and Overdose

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “Opioid overdose can occur when a patient deliberately misuses a prescription opioid or an illicit drug such as heroin.”

Those who abuse opium in high doses always have a chance of experiencing an overdose, the side effects of which may include:

• Slowed, shallow, or no breathing
• Slowed or stopped heartbeat
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Coma
• Death

Even infrequent opium users can experience an overdose.

A person can die during an opium overdose if they are not able to breathe properly, and sometimes, this change is not noticeable to the individual after they become extremely drowsy.

It only takes one instance of abuse for a person to overdose on opium––or any opioid-based drug––so it is absolutely possible that someone could even overdose on their first time trying the drug.

Side Effects of Opium Abuse

Even those who take the drug infrequently can possibly experience certain side effects. These may include:

• Constipation, nausea, and vomiting, which over time, can all lead to severe gastrointestinal issues
• Dry mouth and mucous membranes
• Breathing and throat problems
• Dangerous behaviors committed while high, including driving while intoxicated

Most opium users will not seek help for these issues, and often, they will only become worse as abuse becomes more frequent.

The Possibility of Addiction

Everyone who becomes addicted to opium starts out in control of their drug abuse. Because you believe that your abuse is infrequent and therefore less dangerous, there is a possibility that you will not realize it if your use of the drug becomes more problematic.

Over time, many individuals who only use opium and other habit-forming drugs every so often begin to use them more and more, leading to dependence and addiction. This is the nature of these substances, which are very likely to cause more frequent use––and the consequences of these actions––the longer one continues to abuse them.

Call Now to Find Rehab Centers

If you have been abusing opium, it is not too late to make a change in your life and avoid any dangerous consequences of your substance use. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) to find rehab programs that will cater to your needs and help you recover from dangerous drug abuse.

Opium Abuse and Polydrug Addiction: How is It Treated?

Methadone addiction is treated much in the same way that other opioid addiction syndromes are, with a few exceptions. If you are looking for safe, effective opioid abuse treatment, call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) to find rehab centers that will cater to your needs.

Methadone Abuse, Addiction, and Treatment

The treatment of methadone addiction is very similar to other types of opioid rehab programs, specifically because the drug is an opioid agonist and it causes the same effects that other opioids do.

Therefore, the options utilized in this type of program “are drawn from research on the treatment of heroin addiction and include medications (e.g., naltrexone, methadone, and buprenorphine) as well as behavioral counseling approaches” (National Institute on Drug Abuse).

However, addiction to methadone in particular can often imply that an individual was being treated for opioid abuse with the drug and then began to misuse it. If this is the case, some changes may need to be made to the person’s treatment regimen in order for them to safely recover.

Medications for Methadone Abuse Treatment

Methadone itself is still often used as a treatment in this case, usually as a long-term maintenance program where the individual receives doses of the drug once a day. This is partially because the drug is the best possible option for individuals who have severe dependencies on opioids, as it is stronger in its effects than buprenorphine and easier to tolerate than naltrexone.

Group therapy helps patients avoid relapse.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, optimal-dose methadone is often the “treatment of choice for patients with high levels of physical dependency,” which is also very common among individuals who become addicted to the drug.

Many people are concerned that this kind of maintenance on the very drug the individual was abusing is a form of medically sanctioned addiction.

But when methadone is taken as prescribed and the individual is monitored for their safe, consistent use where the drug is concerned, none of the normal consequences associated with methadone addiction will be present and the individual will be able to live their life without experiencing euphoria, drowsiness, or any of the other problematic side effects of opioid abuse.

Behavioral Therapy for Methadone Abuse Treatment

Behavioral therapies are a very important part of treatment, as they will help the individual to see their abuse in a different way. These programs also teach more beneficial life skills and coping mechanisms so the patient can avoid the possibility of relapse and build a stronger recovery. Some of the most commonly used behavioral treatments in methadone rehab include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Contingency management
• Group therapy
• Family behavioral therapy
• Community reinforcement approach

Seek Addiction Treatment Now

Do you need methadone addiction treatment? Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to find the most reliable rehab options available to you and to learn which programs will be best for your needs. We can also answer any questions you have about addiction and rehab. Start your journey toward a well-rounded recovery today by calling for help now.

Recovering from Opioid Addiction: How Opioids Affect the Brain

Buprenorphine can be an incredibly helpful medication for many individuals. Depending on your needs, you may want to choose buprenorphine as the opioid treatment medication for your recovery. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to find rehab centers that provide options to help patients to create a well-rounded treatment program.

1. You Have a Mild Dependency on Opioids

If you have a mild dependency on opioid drugs, buprenorphine could be an excellent choice for your treatment needs. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “Studies indicate that buprenorphine is equally as effective as moderate doses of methadone,” but it is not as effective as optimal methadone doses. Therefore, someone with a mild dependency will not need as high of a dosage of medication, and buprenorphine could be beneficial choice for treatment.

2. You Have No Liver Issues

According to the Journal of Neuroscience in Rural Practice, “Reports already exist of buprenorphine-induced hepatitis, in particular when used intravenously, and national guidelines now recommend regular monitoring of liver function, especially when commencing treatment.”

While liver problems are not extremely common for those who take buprenorphine as prescribed and follow the instructions of their doctor, someone with no liver issues––past or present––is likely a better candidate for the drug than someone who has suffered from these problems in the past.

3. You Will Be Compliant with Treatment Regulations

Buprenorphine treatment is a beneficial option for those with busy lifestyles.

Buprenorphine is not as highly regulated as methadone. One of the reasons for this is because the former drug, while still misused in some instances, is less likely to be abused because it is paired with naloxone, a drug that precipitates withdrawal in those who attempt to abuse the medication.

However, it is still very important that a candidate for this option is prepared to be compliant with the regulations of treatment, as they are more lax in the case of buprenorphine use.

4. You Have a Busy Lifestyle

A busy life, many responsibilities, and a strong social support network will often make someone a better candidate for buprenorphine treatment. This is because the drug itself can be received through a doctor’s office instead of through a maintenance clinic like methadone.

Many people also are able to take their medication home so they can visit the office less often. This is a beneficial choice for those who have a number of important factors in their life as well as people who are helping them avoid relapse and other issues.

5. You are Not Pregnant or Likely to Become Pregnant

While buprenorphine has been used in some instances to treat pregnant patients, it is usually the less popular choice, as methadone is FDA approved to treat pregnant individuals and buprenorphine is not. However, this can depend largely on your particular situation in addition to your likelihood of becoming pregnant.

Do You Need Addiction Treatment for Opioid Abuse?

Whether you choose buprenorphine, methadone, or another combination of treatments for your recovery, we can help you find the right rehab center for your needs. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) today to begin your journey of recovery from opioid abuse.

The Dangers of Buprenorphine Abuse

The effects of codeine can vary based on the chemical structure of the user, as well as the amount that is used, the length of time it is abused, and how pure the codeine is. However, any abuse is harmful.

If codeine abuse leads to addiction, it will require professional treatment, so it is important to seek help as soon as possible because it will take just as long to recover as it took to become addicted.

If you or someone you know is suffering from codeine abuse or addiction, please call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) and someone will assist you in finding the help needed.

Mood Symptoms of Codeine

Codeine abuse can have a noticeable effect on a person’s mood. Often, a codeine user may shift through multiple different moods, exhibiting things such as:

• Euphoria
• Anxiety
• Calmness
• Depression

According to the National Institutes of Health, some of these symptoms may be serious enough to need to be addressed by a medical professional, like extreme mood swings. A change in mood can branch from the causes of the abuse and enhance the negative emotions, most commonly depression and anxiety. Codeine abuse can also cause the person to feel and act uncharacteristically euphoric and calm.

Behavioral Symptoms of Abuse

Codeine abuse can cause extreme mood shifts.

Codeine is commonly used as a cold medicine, so it is not surprising to find that the abuser will feel drowsier than normal and sleep more than they normally would. Users may exhibit behavior such as apathy or indifference toward their loved ones.

The euphoria an addict gets from codeine abuse may cause further behavioral changes, often so they can get another dose. Behaviors that manifest to acquire more codeine include:

• Faking illnesses to multiple doctors to obtain more codeine prescriptions
• Ordering codeine online
• Forging prescriptions
• Stealing to get it from their loved ones

Physical Symptoms of Codeine Abuse

While behavioral symptoms are hidden by the abuser, the physical symptoms are very noticeable and can be spotted by family and friends. These symptoms can include:

• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Dry mouth
• Seizure
• Blue tinged lips and fingernails
• Respiratory depression
• Rashes
• Decreased libido
• Urinary retention
• Muscle twitches
• Itching
• Hypotension

The cause of the physical symptoms may be first mistaken as something else, but they are often severe enough to warrant medical intervention. Treatment of the physical symptoms will usually lead to the uncovering of the person’s codeine abuse.

The Psychological Symptoms

The brain can be affected by codeine abuse and can cause many symptoms that can also be detected by loved ones. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, codeine acts as a depressant of the central nervous system, which can cause a sedative or calm effect. But, it can also cause:

• Sensation of physical distortion
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Memory loss
• Lack of emotion

Codeine abuse can cause just as many problems as addiction and should be treated before it becomes a full blown addiction. By knowing the mood, behavioral, physical, and psychological symptoms of codeine abuse, loved ones can stage an intervention or a sit down and calmly convince the abuser or addict to seek treatment.

For more information on codeine abuse, contact opium.org at 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?).

Signs Your Child is Abusing Opium Derivatives

Unfortunately, polydrug abuse is especially common among opium addicts, making the abuse of the this extremely dangerous and more likely to lead to multiple addiction syndromes. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) today to find safe, reliable rehab centers where you can be treated for substance abuse.

Opium and Polydrug Abuse

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, it is very common for opium addicts to abuse the drug “in combination with other drugs.” For example:

• Black Russian: opium and hashish
• A-Bomb or Buddha: opium and marijuana
• Chocolate: opium, marijuana, and amphetamine
• Goma: opium mixed with black tar heroin
• Gum: opium and MDMA or ecstasy
• Black: marijuana, opium, and methamphetamine

This is partially because the drug in its pure form is difficult to find in large quantities. Regrettably, this not only leads to problematic abuse of other substances but high-level addictions to multiple drugs if practiced consistently.

Opium addicts are some of the most common polydrug users and the most likely to be suffering from multiple addictions, which can make recovery much more difficult.

How Do I Know I’m Addicted to More than One Drug?

In order to recover safely, you must tell your doctor about all drugs you use.

Many substance abusers use different drugs consistently in combination with opium in order to experience different effects. However, there is a strong likelihood that, if you are using intense substances like crack, methamphetamine, heroin, or amphetamine along with opium regularly, you are likely to experience residual effects from it.

Even if you are unsure if you are addicted to another drug or not, it is important to discuss it in treatment and to tell your doctor everything you were abusing in order to recover as safely as possible.

How Can I Stop Abusing Opium and Other Drugs?

According to the State Library of New South Wales, “Using a single psychoactive drug can be dangerous; using more than one significantly increases the risks.” It is important to remember that, if you have been abusing other drugs regularly in conjunction with opium, you will require treatment for all of the substances you were using. Not only because of the severe mental and physical side effects associated with all different drugs of abuse but also because leaving one addiction syndrome untreated can dangerously affect the other.

Simultaneous treatment for both disorders is the only way for opium addicts who have also been abusing other dangerous drugs to recover safely. It is similar to the way one must be treated for co-occurring mental disorders like depression or schizophrenia during addiction rehab: without this side-by-side treatment, the effects of the other disorder could unravel any benefits gained from treating the main disorder.

Seek Addiction Treatment Today

Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to find rehab centers where you can begin to heal from your polydrug abuse. While this issue is common, there are many options available for recovery that you can receive all at the same facility. We can also answer any other questions you may have about rehab as well as whether or not a certain facility will take your insurance and which treatment options it may offer.

Effects of Opium Abuse

Like all other types of opioid addiction syndromes, opium addiction is treatable with the help of healthcare professionals and evidence-based methods. If you want to find rehab centers where you can be treated for opium abuse, call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now.

Opium and Its Addiction Syndrome

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, “Opium is a highly addictive non-synthetic narcotic that is extracted from the poppy plant, Papaver somniferum.” When a person abuses this drug often and in high doses, addiction is an extremely likely result.

The drug occupies the opioid receptors in the brain and body, causing a reduction of pain and the feeling of euphoria. Over time, the mind will begin to crave this effect, and the individual will no longer have control over their substance abuse.

The addiction syndrome associated with opium is very dangerous for a number of reasons.

• It can cause severe and deadly overdose as a result of the respiratory depression caused by abusing high doses of the drug.
• Polydrug abuse is very common among opium users, increasing the chances for addiction and deadly effects.
• Users will often turn to heroin over time because it is easier to obtain and cheaper, which often creates even more harmful results.

Still, opium addiction can be treated, much in the same way that other opioid addiction syndromes are.

How is Opium Addiction Treated?

Behavioral therapies help patients recognize and avoid triggers.

As stated by the NIDA, the options used for treating opium abuse disorders “are drawn from research on the treatment of heroin addiction.” These approaches are all highly evidence based and are officially sanctioned to treat the effects of abusing opioid drugs.

Medications

• The medications used to treat opium addiction include naltrexone, methadone, and buprenorphine. The former drug is an opioid antagonist that blocks opioids from activating receptors and precipitates withdrawal in anyone still dependent on these drugs. The latter medications can be used during medically assisted withdrawal or during maintenance treatment, which is maintains patients on safe doses of the drug as they navigate their recoveries.

Behavioral therapies

• Behavioral therapies are commonly used to treat addiction and are well known for their benefits in recovery. A person can learn to change the way they think about their substance use through these programs as well as
  • Control their cravings
  • Cope with stress
  • Cope with co-occurring mental disorders
  • Recognize and avoid triggers
  • Practice better life skills

Depending on the facility you choose, you may receive other options as part of your overall opium addiction treatment program. However, these are the most commonly used treatment options for this issue.

Professional Rehab Works

If you have been abusing opium for a long time or in large doses, it is time to seek treatment. You may feel that you are unable to control your use of this dangerous drug, but with professional rehab treatment, you can make a real change in your life and end your opium abuse. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) to find rehab centers that will cater to your needs.

Holistic Methods of Opium Treatment for Addiction

Oxymorphone addiction is treated similarly to the way all other opioid addiction syndromes are treated. It is very important, though, that you receive a treatment program that caters to your specific needs. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) to find rehab centers that will help you recover in the safest, most beneficial way possible for you.

Oxymorphone Addiction Recovery

According to the National Library of Medicine, “Oxymorphone is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.” Brand name Opana, Oxymorphone is dangerous when taken in higher doses than those prescribed by a doctor, and this type of abuse can quickly lead to addiction.

It is possible for you to recover from oxymorphone addiction, but professional treatment will be necessary. The drug can be just as addictive as any other opioid when abused, so it is important that you are able to receive access to safe, controlled rehab treatment.

Medications for Oxymorphone Addiction

Like other opioid drugs, oxymorphone addiction can be treated with one of three medications: naltrexone, methadone, or buprenorphine (National Institute on Drug Abuse).

• Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking opioids from affecting their receptors in the brain and body and by precipitating withdrawal in anyone who is currently dependent on the drug. While naltrexone can work very well when an individual takes it faithfully, patients do not tolerate it as easily as other medications.
• Methadone is an opioid agonist that acts like other opioids but is not dangerous when taken in
  

  Behavioral therapies help patients become and remain sober.

  prescribed doses. It occupies the opioid receptors, minimizes withdrawal symptoms, and reduces cravings without causing euphoria so the individual can live their life without the severe effects of opioid addiction recovery. This medication is best used for the treatment of patients with high-level dependence on oxymorphone.

• Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which is used very similarly to the way methadone is. However, the fact that it is only a partial agonist makes it much safer from abuse, and it is marketed with naloxone, which precipitates withdrawal when someone attempts to crush and snort the drug. It is best for those with milder dependencies on opioids.

Behavioral Therapies for Oxymorphone Addiction

Behavioral therapies are always beneficial, and as there are many different types, they can often be used together to create a well-rounded treatment program.

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy teaches patients to see their oxymorphone abuse in a new light as well as how to cope with cravings, avoid triggers, and practice better life skills.
• Contingency management gives patients a motivation for staying sober by allowing them to obtain vouchers for goods and services as a result of a clean drug test.
• Group therapy helps patients learn from others in their same situation as well as gain the kind of social support that is so helpful during this time.

Seek Addiction Treatment Now

We can help you find a rehab center where you will be able to recover safely from oxymorphone abuse and addiction. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to discuss your options and to learn more about recovery.

10 Reasons to Seek Treatment Instead of Your Next Opioid Fix

If you have been abusing opium and are unsure if you require addiction treatment, look for the 10 signs below to know if it’s time to seek help. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to find safe, reliable rehab centers where you can put an end to your opium abuse.

1. Constipation

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, “Opium inhibits muscle movement in the bowels leading to constipation.” Over time, this can cause gastrointestinal problems that require professional medical treatment. If you have avoided seeking help in order to keep abusing opium, this is a dangerous sign of addiction.

2. Cravings

Do you feel that you are constantly thinking about when you will be able to get your next fix? If you spend most of your time in this state, addiction has already set in, and you will require professional treatment.

3. Polydrug Abuse

Many opium addicts use the drug in combination with other substances. Consistently doing so because the drug itself is no longer enough to satisfy you is dangerous, and the more you continue to abuse multiple drugs, the more risks you are taking with your health––and your life.

4. Withdrawal Symptoms

Opium abuse can cause problems at work.

As stated by the National Library of Medicine, “How long it takes to become physically dependent varies with each person,” but if you have been abusing a drug, experiencing withdrawal symptoms is usually a sign that you are already addicted as well as dependent.

5. Considering Heroin Use

You may be considering switching to heroin because it is cheaper and easier to obtain than opium. If this is the case, seek treatment now before moving on to the use of an even more dangerous substance.

6. Work Problems

Have you been reprimanded for coming in to work late––or not at all––because of your opium abuse? Have you been fired as a result of your dangerous drug use? Whatever the consequences, they will only get worse if you don’t find help.

7. Relationship Problems

The people close to you will want you to be safe and healthy. And if you are becoming addicted to opium, your drug abuse is likely affecting them as well. It is important to consider if they may be right about the dangers of your opium abuse.

8. Overdose

If you have experienced an overdose from opium use at any point, you must seek treatment right away. Opioid overdoses can be deadly.

9. Legal Problems

Have you been arrested or faced legal issues as a result of your opium abuse? It is time to get help and make a change.

10. Apathy

With addiction comes a feeling of apathy toward everything else in your life that used to matter to you: people, activities, even keeping yourself clean and healthy. Without treatment, you will not be able to gain back control over your life.

Do You Need Opium Addiction Treatment?

It is never too early to seek help. Even if you have not experienced these issues yet, if you continue abusing opium, it is likely that you will. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to find rehab centers that will cater to your needs and help you make a strong, speedy recovery.

The Dangers of Abusing Heroin & Prescription Pain Pills and the Need for Opiate Addiction Treatment

When used correctly, buprenorphine can counter the withdrawal symptoms of opioid addiction, but it can cause many side effects, short- and long-term, if abused. Oftentimes people begin to abuse this drug for its euphoric effects as a substitute for their opioid addiction with the untrue belief that it is not as harmful as their previous drug.

It is important for people to understand the dangers of buprenorphine abuse regardless of whether they have recovered from or are currently addicted to opioids.

Side and Short-Term Effects

The side effects and short-term effects of a buprenorphine abuse can also be dangerous for the user, as it can cause great feelings of discomfort despite the psychological euphoric feeling it can produce. For correct buprenorphine use, there are only a small amount of short-term effects, which include:

• Sedation
• Euphoria
• decreased pain symptoms

When abused, it can cause many unwanted side effects. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, side effects of buprenorphine abuse include:

• fever
• muscle aches
• nausea
• cravings
• constipation
• vomiting
• fever
• distress
• irritability
• inability to sleep
• flu-like symptoms
• mood swings
• dizziness

Buprenorphine abuse can lead to drug cravings and irritability.

Some severe side effects may signal liver damage that would require medical attention, such as:

• dark urine
• yellow skin
• jaundice in the whites of the eyes
• light colored feces
• severe stomach pain

Long-Term Effects

Even after buprenorphine abuse stops, the individual may still suffer from the long-term effects caused by the damage that occurred during the abuse. While abuse may be mild compared to an opioid addiction, it can still be just as dangerous and uncomfortable. Users with medical conditions such as asthma, or who use anti-depressants or benzodiazepines may be at risk for a cardiovascular collapse or deadly respiratory depression.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, after the addict stops using buprenorphine, he or she may become more sensitive to the effects of opioids if they relapse, which would put them at an increased risk for an overdose or death. Finally, if the drug is injected, the addict can be at risk for blood borne illnesses such as HIV/AIDS or abscesses from sharing needles.

The Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone tries to quit abusing buprenorphine, the withdrawal symptoms can be immensely uncomfortable and difficult to deal with without the help of a detoxification or inpatient drug rehab.

Buprenorphine was designed to attach to the same opioid receptors as heroin or morphine to block the opioid drugs ability to create their full range of effects on the user. The withdrawal symptoms can be similar to the side effects of buprenorphine abuse, and include:

• yawning
• dilated pupils
• watery eyes
• anxiety
• nausea or vomiting
• restlessness
• sweating
• muscle aches
• goose bumps
• insomnia

The dangers of buprenorphine are not well known and many opioid addicts may think it is safer to abuse it than their opioid drug, but it is not true. By understanding the short- and long-term risks as well as the withdrawal symptoms an abuser will endure, the recovering addict can avoid a substitute drug problem.

It is important to note that buprenorphine has been successful in numerous cases in helping opioid addicts become sober by aiding in the withdrawal process, but when abused, it will only make the addiction that much harder to recover from.

If you or someone you know is suffering from an opioid addiction and needs help, please call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) to speak with a caring professional.

For more information on buprenorphine abuse, please call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?).

What Addiction Treatment Options Can Help With Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms?