Everyone should know that opiate abuse is a severe health problem—but are opiates deadly? The dangers of opiate abuse can’t be played down or ignored. Opiates are dangerous and can lead to overdoses, long-term addiction, and death. If you or someone you love is struggling with opiate abuse, it’s vital to seek professional help immediately. Call 844.540.0357 to speak with someone from Painted Desert Recovery’s caring and compassionate team about New Harmony, Utah, opiate addiction treatment.
What Is the Difference Between Opiates and Opioids?
Opiate use dates back to ancient times when doctors prescribed them to treat various ailments such as pain relief, cough suppression, and diarrhea. In the 19th century, opiates became widely available in medical and recreational forms, leading to widespread abuse and addiction.
Opiates are any drug derived from opium from the poppy plant. It includes natural substances like morphine and codeine and semisynthetic drugs like hydrocodone and oxycodone. Opioids are synthetic drugs that are manufactured in a lab and have effects that mimic those of opiates. Examples of opioids include the following:
- Fentanyl
- Methadone
- Hydromorphone
- Meperidine
- Tramadol
- Propoxyphene
These drugs have powerful psychoactive effects on users when taken in large doses or over long periods.
Are Opiates Deadly?
Yes. Opiates can be deadly if not taken responsibly or under medical supervision. Overdose deaths related to opioid abuse have skyrocketed in recent years due to the increased availability of these drugs on the street and their highly addictive nature when taken over extended periods or in large doses. Additionally, certain combinations of opioids with other substances, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines, significantly increase the risk of overdose. Even small amounts can be lethal when combined with other substances that depress respiration levels, such as alcohol or sleeping pills.
What Are the Dangers of Opiate Abuse?
The primary danger associated with opiate abuse is an increased risk of overdose death due to respiratory depression caused by taking too much at once or over extended periods without medical supervision or monitoring by health professionals. Additionally, there are serious mental health risks associated with using these drugs, including depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and suicidal ideation—which can all increase the risk for suicide attempts if left untreated.
There are also physical risks associated with long-term use, including the following:
- Organ damage from prolonged exposure to certain chemicals found in some opiate prescription painkillers
- Liver damage from excessive alcohol consumption while using opioids
- Kidney damage from excessive use and mixing different types without medical supervision
It is also worth noting that organ damage, in these cases, is typically the eventual result of organ failure and death.
What to Expect from Opiate Addiction Treatment
Suppose you are struggling with an addiction to opiates. In that case, you must seek professional help immediately. Treatment typically involves individual counseling and group therapy sessions where individuals learn coping skills and relapse prevention methods. Treatment centers also provide 24-hour support services such as nurses, doctors, and counselors who understand how best to help clients manage their withdrawal symptoms safely while providing emotional support during this difficult time.
Find Opiate Addiction Treatment in Utah at Painted Desert Recovery
Are opiates deadly? While opiates may seem appealing initially, their misuse can have disastrous consequences. If you feel that you or someone you love needs help overcoming opiate addiction, please get in touch with Painted Desert Recovery today at 844.540.0357. We offer evidence-based care designed specifically for women struggling with addiction. We understand how overwhelming addiction can be, and our caring and compassionate team will work hard alongside you every step toward achieving a healthier, more productive life free from addictive substances.