With so many harmful and illicit substances available, it can be hard making distinctions between them. One of the hardest to keep separate are opiates vs opioids. Many believe the terms to be interchangeable, when in reality, there are differences between the two. Knowing these differences is key to seeking out substance abuse treatments for recovery.
What is the Difference Between Opioids and Opiates
While the two terms sound similar, there is a distinction between the two. The major difference between opioids and opiates is how they are made. An opiate refers to any substance or drug made from the opium poppy plant. An opioid is a partial or fully synthetic drug or substance that creates a similar effect of an opiate.
When it comes to opiates vs opioids, there is also a difference in how they are classified. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration uses five schedules to classify drugs based on their medical use and potential for dependency and abuse. Some opioids sit at a Schedule I classification while opiates sit at a Schedule II. These classifications mean that opiates are still considered appropriate for medical use when prescribed appropriately by a medical professional, however, they still have highly addictive properties. Opioids that are Schedule I hold no medical benefits and should never be used in any capacity by anyone.
If an individual is struggling with an addiction to either substance, an opioid addiction treatment center in California is a must.
Opiates Vs Opioids – Are There Similarities?
Because all opiates are in fact opioids because of how an opioid is made, both terms are used by professionals. Both substances create strong feelings of euphoria and can be quite harmful to the body when misused. When an individual uses one of the substances, the effects and signs are also highly similar. These include:
- Constricted pupils
- Slurred speech
- Rash
- Memory loss
- Anxiety
- Shallow or difficulty breathing
When it comes to opiates vs opioids regarding overdose, the risks are high for both. Drug use of either substance will put an individual at high risk for overdose, making treatment crucial. Signs of an overdose can include the following:
- Limp or weak body
- Cold, pale, or blue skin
- Gurgling or choking noises
- Loss of consciousness
If an individual appears to be experiencing an overdose, paramedics should be contacted immediately.
Treatment at New Bridge Foundation®
Whether the difference between opioids and opiates needs to be explained, or treatment for one of the substances is needed, New Bridge Foundation® is here to help. Our team of professionally trained staff is ready to create a treatment plan for clients struggling with a range of drug dependencies. We also provide dual diagnosis treatment for those struggling with both substance abuse and mental health. When it comes to our programs, we offer the following levels of care:
- Detoxification
- Short-Term Residential Rehab (Helios)
- Short-Term Outpatient Rehab (Helios)
- Long-Term Residential Rehab (START)
- Free Aftercare for Life
To learn more about opiates vs opioids or to begin receiving treatment, contact New Bridge Foundation® today by calling 866.772.8491.
