Opioids - What Are They And What Do They Do?

How Are Opioids Used?

Commonly prescribed for pain, opioids can be used in a wide range of clinical settings. After a patient is out of surgery, for instance, opioids may be given to help control pain levels. The same is true for those who have experienced a significant injury, are enduring cancer-related pain, or require relief from a chronic, degenerative disorder.

The human body actually produces its own opiate-like substances, such as endorphins. Unfortunately, our body’s natural defense system is not effective against immense levels of pain. Considering pain is the body’s way of letting a person know that something is abnormal, powerful opioids are generally used to combat pain levels.

Keep reading to learn about the short-term effects of opioids.