There are a number of addictive drugs out there that people need to watch out for. One of the most dangerous is opium because of its addictive nature. Studies show that opium addiction is on the rise in cities all over the world. One reason for this increase is that doctors prescribe opioids on a regular basis.
Whether you’ve attended opium rehab in the past and found that it was not sufficient for you, or if it’s your first time reaching out for help, Pinnacle Peak Recovery offers effective, evidence-based opium addiction treatment in Arizona. Each client’s needs, interests, background, and goals are evaluated to create a unique treatment plan that engages and resonates with you. With our help, you can overcome addiction and learn how to lead a healthy life.
What Is Opium?
Opium is a narcotic; other narcotics include morphine and heroin. It comes from the opium poppy seed pod and grows naturally in many areas, mainly around central Asia. It can be made into a solid, liquid, or powder, and people often use opium to get high. Some of the street names used for opium include:
- Aunti
- Aunti Emma
- Big O
- Black pill
- Chandu
- Dopium
- Dream Gun
- Midnight Oil
- Zero
This drug is very addictive and can lead to substance use even in those that initially take opioids for recommended medical purposes.
People use this substance to get high. It has a very bitter taste, and it contains many alkaloids.
Difference Between Opium, Opioid and Opiate
Many people use the terms opium, opiate, and opioid interchangeably, but there are some differences between each of these labels.
Opium refers to the poppy plant, which is also known as Papaver somniferum.
Opiate refers to drugs that are made naturally from opium, such as heroin and morphine.
Opioid refers to the mechanism of action of the drug. Any substances that bind to opioid receptors in the brain are known as opioids. Some opioids are made in labs and are designed to mimic the natural chemicals found in opiates. Opioids include opiates like heroin and morphine, but also synthetic drugs such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, and fentanyl.
No matter what people call them, these drugs are all highly addictive. They have their place in the medical field, though. For example, opioids and opiates are great pain relievers and blockers. However, they’re highly addictive, and the risk outweighs the reward for some people.
Opium Addiction and Common Opiates
When discussing opium addiction, it’s important to acknowledge common opiates that people take. There are many prescription opiates and opioids out there, but the most common include:
- Oxycodone
- Fentanyl
- Morphine
- Hydrocodone
- Hydromorphone
Of course, not everyone knows these drugs by their generic names. They only recognize them under their brand names. For example, brand names for hydrocodone include Hycodan and Vicodin. A common brand name for oxycodone is OxyContin. It’s important for people to know both the generic and brand names of these drugs to avoid opium addiction.
What are the short and long-term effects of opium use?
In addition to being a highly addictive substance, opium can come with several side effects. Some of these side effects include the following:
- Sleepiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Euphoria
- Breathing problems
- Constipation
- Hallucinations
- Hypoxia
Due to these side effects, a doctor may prescribe additional medications to help counteract the effects of taking opium. It is essential to only combine it with other drugs under the instruction of a doctor. Mixing medications can lead to serious health problems or even death.
Hypoxia is a condition where the brain does not receive enough oxygen, which can be caused by opiate use. Hypoxia can have both long-term and short-term effects both psychologically and neurologically. These effects can include a coma, irreversible brain damage, and even death. It is unknown if brain damage that is caused by opiate abuse can be reversed.
Other long-term side effects of opiate abuse are just as severe. One of the most significant lasting side effects is a weakened immune system, which can lead to more illnesses than usual. A person abusing opiates can also experience gastric problems beyond just short-term constipation. These can include bowel perforation and intestinal issues.
Depending on how a person is ingesting opiates, there can be even more problems. People that share needles for drug use risk contracting bloodborne illnesses and infections.
The severity of these side effects and the progressive nature of addiction are a dangerous combination that unfortunately results in many people losing their lives each day. If you or someone you know has an issue with opium abuse or is developing an addiction to opium, it is critical to seek help before it is too late.
What are the signs of opium addiction?
There are several signs to look out for when identifying opium or opiate addiction. In addition to the side effects listed above, symptoms of addiction can include the following:
- Poor coordination
- Slurred speech
- Poor decision making
- Mood swings
- Poor performance at school or work
- Irritability
- Depression
- Anxiety
Opium/opiate abuse leaves the user susceptible to overdose, just like other drugs. An individual that suffers an overdose from opiates will need medical attention right away. Many people that overdose on opioids can be helped using a prescription nasal spray called Narcan. Anyone that has experienced an overdose may show symptoms such as unresponsiveness, slow pulse or no pulse at all, slow breathing, vomiting or unconsciousness. If not treated quickly, an overdose can lead to death.
Is opium addiction treatment available in Arizona?
Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, Pinnacle Peak Recovery is an opium treatment center that specializes in helping people struggling with addiction. Pinnacle Peak Recovery is nationally recognized for our evidence-based treatment options. We provide a holistic approach to overcoming substance use issues.
Our luxury facility provides a safe and supportive environment with complete confidentiality. Due to the high level of care provided, Pinnacle Peak Recovery has received accreditation from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). Every single employee of Pinnacle Peak Recovery is dedicated and determined to help every patient that comes to the facility overcome their addictions and to help them live a happier and healthier life.
Our treatment options include outpatient programs, alumni services, and relapse prevention. To get started, clients work closely with one of our professional intake counselors. After getting to know you, we will develop a treatment program designed specifically for you. We take into account your interests, goals, background, and struggles.
Let Pinnacle Peak Show You Down the Path to Recovery
Don’t let opiate or opioid addiction cause you any more harm. You can get the help that you need to overcome it at Pinnacle Peak Recovery. We take great pride in providing the best possible treatments. Some programs that we offer to help people overcome addiction include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Gender-specific treatment
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Inpatient rehab
- Individual and group therapy
We also offer holistic treatment options such as meditation and yoga to reduce stress. Reducing stress allows you to focus fully on overcoming your addiction. Studies also show that people who have less stress during rehab are less likely to relapse.
Don’t attempt to fight your addiction alone. Let us help you get your life or the life of a loved one back in order. Pinnacle Peak Recovery can show you down the right path. Contact us today for more information at 866-377-4761.