Opioids are among the most dangerous and widely abused drugs in recent years. At the heart of the prescription drug epidemic, opioid addiction often occurs as a result of drugs prescribed by a doctor. From heroin to oxycodone, all opioids are capable of taking their toll on a user’s life. Discover the signs of opioid abuse and resources that can help with recovery.

Types Of Opioids

Opioids can essentially be classified into two groups—prescribed opioids such as oxycodone, and street opioids like heroine. It is common for those who abuse prescription opioids to make the switch to using heroin and vice versa. Some of the common types of opioids include:

• Actiq, Duragesic, Sublimaze, OxyContin, Percodan, Percocet, Tylox, Dilaudid, Fiorional with Codeine, Robitussin A-C, Tylenol with Codeine, Empirin with Codeine, Roxanol, Duramorph, Demerol

Signs Of Opioid Use

Behavioral changes are extremely common among opioid abusers. It’s common for abusers to seem talkative and energetic in the time shortly after they’ve used, and tired and fatigued after they crash from the drug. Whether they got their opioids from a doctor or from a dealer on the street, look for signs of the user going out of their way to score more. This can include everything from shopping for different doctors who will give them what they need to stealing and disappearing for days at a time.

Addiction To Opioids

Opioids are highly addictive, and users can become addicts even from a normally prescribed dose. In fact, it’s common for doctors to overprescribe opioids, which can lead to addiction. A key trait of opioid addiction is that the drug will become the most important thing in the addict’s life. Addicts will typically resort to illegal methods of obtaining their next dose if they are unable to get the drugs through a physician. Opioid addiction is extremely strong and can take over a user’s life in a surprisingly short period of time.

Symptoms Of Withdrawal

Since the addictive qualities of opioids are very strong, the withdrawal symptoms are formidable as well. The withdrawal symptoms of opioids can be divided into the following two categories:

Short-Term Withdrawal – Within 24 Hours

Short-term opioid withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Joint pain
• Teary eyes
• Runny nose
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Sweating
• Restlessness
• Agitation
• Muscle aches

Long Term Withdrawal – After the First Day

Long-term opioid withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal cramping
• Rapid heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Dilated pupils

Treatment Can Help

When people discover that a loved one is addicted to opioids, it’s common for a codependent relationship to develop as they provide a comforting space for the addict to continue using. To support recovery, it’s vital to seek treatment. Following treatment, a short-term or long-term residential recovery program can be a great way to support your commitment to recovery while placing yourself in a safe environment that removes temptation.

Seek Help At Myrtle Beach Recovery

At our recovery house in Myrtle Beach, SC, we offer proven programs that can give addicts a chance at regaining a recovered life. Based on the 12 Steps of Recovery, our short-term and long-term programs offer residents a real chance at recovery from their opioid addiction.

Don’t waste another day. Contact Myrtle Beach Recovery today to learn more.