How Do I Know If Someone I Love Is Abusing Opium?

Opium is an incredibly intense narcotic with strong side effects. When abused over time, it can lead to addiction. If you think someone you know is frequently abusing opium, it is better to find out soon so you can help them seek treatment and recover. Call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?) now to have Opium.org help you to find rehab centers in your area or to find help for those who abuse opium.

Physical Signs of Opium Abuse

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, “The opium poppy is the key source for many narcotics, including morphine, codeine, and heroin.” This means it causes the same side effects as these drugs. Also, because it is not as easily attainable as the drugs listed above, someone who abuses opium frequently will often turn to a cheaper, more available drug like heroin once they become addicted.

The common physical signs of opium use include:

Dizziness and headaches are physical signs of opium abuse.

• Dry mouth
• Dry mucous membranes
• Flushing
• Itchiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Small pupils
• Constipation

Constipation is the most complained of physical side effect of opioid treatment, according to the International Journal of Clinical Practice, but someone who enjoys using these drugs recreationally will not stop because of it. They will often try to ignore these effects, make excuses for them, or try to treat them or cope with them in ways that do not include quitting opium. This can be dangerous and is often a sign of a budding addiction.

Behavioral Signs of Opium Abuse

Those who misuse this drug consistently will show signs of their abuse whether they are intoxicated or not. When they do become intoxicated after using opium, they will likely experience euphoria, relaxation, and a relief of pain. They will also become very drowsy. Other behavioral signs of opium use include:

• Mood swings
• Depression
• Confusion
• Ignoring responsibilities and becoming unreliable
• Acting secretively
• Becoming hostile when others ask about their drug use, where they’ve been, etc.
• Spending time with new individuals and leaving old friends behind
• Spending lots of time alone
• Not caring about their personal appearance or hygiene

When these signs begin to line up with the physical signs of opium abuse, it is very likely that the person you care for is using opium recreationally. Because there is a strong chance this abuse could lead to the use of heroin or the recreational use of prescription drugs, you should act quickly in order to help your loved one.

Finding Help for a Loved One Who is Addicted to Opium

What Should I Do?

If your friend or family member has been abusing opium, it is important to know what their treatment options are, which of these will be best for them, and how you can support them as they begin to recover. If you call 877-743-0081 (Who Answers?), we will help you find rehab facilities in your area as well as answer your questions about opium abuse and about how to talk to your loved one about their substance use.

Once you have a set plan, talk to your friend about their opium use and stress that you believe it is important for them to get help. Once they realize this is necessary as well, you can help them transition into treatment as soon as possible.