What are opioids?
Opioids are a class of drug which includes both prescription pain relief and illegal substances. The use of opioids for both pain relief and euphoria dates back to 3400 BC where Ancient Sumerians referred to opium poppies as the joy plant. When it comes to modern opioids, there are two kinds.
Opiates: naturally produced directly from the opium poppy (heroin, codeine, morphine).
Opioids: synthetically produced chemicals that mimic opiates (methadone, fentanyl, and pethidine).
How do opioids affect the brain?
Opioids trigger the release of endorphins, which tell your brain that you feel good. There are three major receptors to which opioids bind; Mu, Kappa, and Delta. The Mu-opiate receptor is responsible for the major effects of all opioids. GABAergic neurons which are a batch of nerve cells in the midbrain are switched off by the opioid receptors. The GABAergic neurons function as an off-switch for the brain’s pleasure and euphoric networks which means dopamine is released into the pleasure circuits when switched.
Long-term effects of opioids.
Currently, researchers are investigating the long-term effects of opioid use. Some preliminary findings suggest an increased risk of:
- Fractures
- Infection
- Cardiovascular complications (incl. myocarditis)
- Sleep-disordered breathing
- Sleep disturbances
- Bowel dysfunction
One of the greatest risks of long-term opioid use is that a person develops tolerance and dependency for the drug.
Short-term effects
One of the primary short-term effects of opioids is of course their use for pain relief and relaxation. This is why these drugs are often prescribed for managing acute or severe pain.
However, there are also some other short-term effects which can be dangerous if not monitored.
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Euphoria
- Slowed breathing
- Confusion
- Lowered blood pressure
- Itching
Hypoxia and Overdose
Hypoxia is a condition which can occur when too little oxygen reaches the brain. This can occur when breathing is slowed and shallow. Hypoxia has both short and long-term neurological and psychological effects.
- Coma
- Permanent brain damage
- Death
Overdose can happen anytime that a large amount of opioids, or a strong dose, has been administered. People dependent on opioids are at a higher risk of an overdose if their drug tolerance is reduced.
If someone overdoses and you have naloxone, immediately administer the naloxone and call 000 for an ambulance.
Harm Reduction Victoria offers free Opioid Overdose Recognise & Response online training on the 1st of each month.