Opioids

Opioids are a group of natural and synthetic drugs that are made from the poppy plant (Papaver somniferum) or synthetic compounds with similar properties [26504][49604]. They can be legal medicines (pharmaceutical opioids) used for pain relief which are prescribed by a doctor (such as fentanyl and oxycodone), or illegal drugs, like heroin [26504]. Opioids are considered depressant drugs because they slow down the messages travelling between the brain and the body.

Repeated or continuous use of opioids for non-medical purposes can lead to dependence. Although the prevalence of opioid dependence in the community is low, the harms to health and social costs are significant [47514].

Some of the health harms from dependent opioid use include:

• overdose
• organ damage
• risk of blood-borne viruses from injecting
• infertility
• dental problems (opioids dry up saliva)
• depression [49605].

There are ways to reduce possible harms related to opioid dependence, such as [26504]:

• avoid combining opioids with other depressant drugs like alcohol or benzodiazepines
• using clean needles and other injecting equipment and not sharing with others
• avoid injury by not driving or using machinery while intoxicated
• seek treatment support from a doctor.

In addition to the health costs, the social and economic costs include:

• disruption to family and community relationships
• harms to the welfare of children
• difficulty maintaining employment
• issues with money
• greater involvement of social services and law enforcement [47514].