Opioids are a category of drugs used to manage pain, but they are also highly addictive. When taken as prescribed, they can be an effective way to manage pain, but long-term opioid abuse can lead to serious side effects. Opioid addiction has become a prevalent problem in America and is currently considered a national emergency. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, it’s important to know the common side effects of opioid abuse and seek treatment as soon as possible.
At New Bridge Foundation®, we offer a comprehensive opioid treatment program designed to help individuals overcome their addiction and achieve lasting recovery. With over 50 years of experience, we have been named one of America’s “Best Addiction Treatment Centers” for the past three years, per a survey conducted by Newsweek Magazine. To learn more about our opioid addiction treatment programs in California, reach out to New Bridge Foundation® at 866.772.8491 today.
Opioid Side Effects
Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription pain medications, heroin, and synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl. These drugs interact with the brain’s opioid receptors, producing a feeling of pleasure and pain relief.
While opioids can be a powerful tool for pain management when used as directed, they are also highly addictive and can lead to both physical and psychological dependence. By better understanding the long- and short-term side effects of opioid use, you can more easily identify whether you or someone close to you needs the professional help of an opioid treatment program.
Side Effects of Short-Term Opioid Abuse
The short-term effects of opioids are perhaps the most easily identifiable. An individual abusing opioids in the short term is likely to demonstrate all or some of the following:
- Euphoria
- Slowed breathing
- Constipation
- Lowered inhibitions
- Reduced pain sensitivity
- Impaired cognitive and motor skills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Confusion and impaired judgment
- Itching or sweating
Side Effects of Long-Term Opioid Abuse
The long-term effects of opioid abuse can be far more severe. These can include, but may not be limited to, the following:
- Organ damage and failure
- Cognitive impairment, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating
- Damage to the reproductive system
- Heightened blood pressure and heart rate
- Persistent respiratory problems such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Mood swings, depression, anxiety, paranoia, insomnia
- Decreased immune function
Opioid abuse can also increase the risk of overdose, as the body builds up a tolerance to the medication and requires higher doses to achieve the same effect.
Non-Physical Side Effects of Opioid Abuse
In addition to the numerous and severe physical side effects of opioid abuse, there are many ways that habitual use of these drugs can negatively affect users emotionally, psychologically, and socially. Among these are the following:
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Insomnia
- Impaired cognitive and motor skills
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
- Lowered inhibitions that lead to risky behaviors
- Strained relationships with friends and family
- Decreased productivity at work or school due to drowsiness, fatigue, or decreased cognitive function
- Increased risk of job loss
If you are experiencing or witnessing the above opioid side effects, it may be time to consider opioid addiction treatment. Our opioid treatment programs are comprehensive and can be tailored to meet the needs of each individual, from detoxification through intensive counseling.
What to Expect in Treatment for Opioid Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, it’s essential to seek professional help. Opioid treatment programs like the one at New Bridge Foundation® frequently involve a combination of medications and therapy to help individuals overcome their addiction. Medications such as methadone or buprenorphine can help ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, while counseling can help address the underlying issues that led to the addiction.
At New Bridge Foundation®, we offer a range of services designed to help individuals break free from their addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. Our programs include:
- Detoxification
- Short-Term Residential Rehab (Helios)
- Short-Term Outpatient Rehab (Helios)
- Long-Term Residential Rehab (START)
- Free Aftercare for Life
Learn More About the Side Effects of Opioid Abuse at New Bridge Foundation® Today
At New Bridge Foundation®, we understand the devastating effects of opioid addiction and offer a comprehensive treatment program designed to help individuals overcome their addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Our program includes individual and group counseling, as well as medication-assisted treatment to help manage cravings and withdrawals. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, don’t wait to get help. Contact us today at 866.772.8491 or use our convenient online form to learn more about our affordable treatment options.
