The Body’s Response to Opioid Addiction

How Opioid Addiction Develops 

Anyone can easily become addicted to opioids. Even prescription opioids used as directed can develop into a substance abuse disorder. Opioids relieve pain and induce euphoria by accessing the central nervous system and attaching to opioid receptors. With repeated opioid misuse, the person develops tolerance and needs more of the drug to keep feeling the same amount.

 Opioids release neurotransmitters that induce feelings of pleasure and euphoria. With continued use, the brain becomes dependent on the drug to release these neurotransmitters in the central nervous system and to function correctly. Stopping opioids causes opioid withdrawal, which can cause severe and painful symptoms. After developing tolerance and dependence, opioids cause a loss of impulse control. This process is when a person becomes addicted to opioids. Signs of opioid addiction to look for include: