Why Are Opioids Addictive?

Opiates, naturally occurring alkaloids, are found in opium poppy plants, and relieve pain symptoms. Drugs in this family include heroin, opium, morphine and codeine, reports opium.com.

The American Society of Addiction Medicine classifies opioids, which are at least partially synthetically produced, in two categories: illicit, which is where heroin falls; and licit, which are prescription pain relievers that include oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine and fentanyl.

 These drugs are chemically related and interact with opioid receptors on nerve cells in the brain and nervous system to produce pleasurable effects and relieve pain.

Read and share these articles from the November 2017 Visitor!

• Feature: On the Front Lines of the Opioid Crisis
• Editorial: I've Been There
• In the Trenches
• On the Front Lines
• The Forgotten Ministry?
• 12 Steps to Christ
• How to Recognize Substance Abuse
• Meeting Them Where They Are
• WGTS 91.9 Celebrates 60 Years of Service