Overview of opioids
What are opioids ? Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription pain relievers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine, as well as the illegal drug heroin. They interact with opioid receptors on nerve cells in the body and brain. Classifications : Opioids can be classified into three main categories: 1. Natural opioids: Derived from the opium poppy plant, examples include morphine and codeine. 2. Semi-synthetic opioids: Created by chemically modifying natural opioids, examples include oxycodone and hydrocodone. 3. Synthetic opioids: Completely man-made, examples include fentanyl and methadone. Mechanism of action : Opioids bind to specific receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body, reducing the perception of pain and producing feelings of euphoria. Indications : Opioids are primarily used for pain relief, especially for acute and severe pain resulting from surgery, injury, or cancer. They may also be used to manage chronic pain in certain cases. Ben