Opioid addiction is a growing problem in the United States. The American Psychiatric Association reports that 110,000 Americans succumbed to drug overdoses in 2022, with 81,000 of those deaths related to prescription or illicit opioids, a 400% increase over the previous decade.
With addiction on the rise, it's essential to know the facts about opioid use disorder. There are a lot of myths out there, but Dr. Lori Scott, an addiction specialist, offers resources and Suboxone treatment to help you or a loved one overcome opioid addiction.
Here, she puts the spotlight on myths about opioid addiction and the truth about this serious problem.
Opioids are a class of drugs that cause euphoria and pain control when used correctly. They induce relaxation and slowed breathing, which can be problematic if not taken correctly.
Opioid addiction is a chronic disorder that causes a person to seek out and misuse opioids, despite knowing the harm they cause. People who use opioids for pain or after surgery are at risk for addiction and long-term dependence.
People living with opioid addiction can either misuse prescription medications like oxycodone, morphine, or hydrocodone or may dive into heroin and fentanyl, both of which are extremely dangerous.
Opioid addiction causes intense cravings for opioids, even though you know the consequences of using. It often leads to changes in demeanor, withdrawal from friends and family, and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit.
Opioid addiction is a complex problem that leads to various health, family, and emotional problems. If you or someone you love is addicted to opioids, it's crucial to understand the truth behind the myths floating around.
The following are five prevalent myths about opioid addiction, debunked:
Opioids aren't like cigarettes or a specific food you want to cut out of your diet. You can't simply quit overnight. In fact, quitting opioids cold turkey is dangerous to your health.
The best way to begin the recovery process is through a detox program where someone is watching you and helping you during the most challenging phase. An addiction specialist can monitor your withdrawal symptoms and provide treatments to make the next steps easier.
While taking opioids for pain does increase your risk of dependence on the drug, it doesn't mean you'll become addicted. The best way to avoid addiction is to take the medications as prescribed and stop taking them when you no longer need pain control.
All types of opioids are dangerous, from prescription medications to illegal street drugs. The myth is that taking oxycodone or another prescription is safer than buying heroin or fentanyl off the street — but that's not the case.
All opioids affect the brain in the same way. They lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms and are dangerous either way.
Unfortunately, there aren't always telltale signs that someone is struggling with an addiction. In fact, many people with opioid addiction try very hard to hide the fact that they’re using.
Opioid addiction affects various genders, races, and ethnicities. It doesn't discriminate and can affect anyone of any age. You can't tell that someone has an opioid addiction by just looking at them.
A central myth out there is that medication-assisted treatment (MAT) replaces one harmful drug with another — but that's false. MAT is highly effective in helping people overcome opioid addiction by stabilizing their brain chemistry and reducing cravings. It also prevents withdrawal symptoms while still preventing the "high" of regular opioids.
Suboxone is part of the medication-assisted treatment Dr. Scott offers for opioid addiction.
Contact Lori Scott Family Care in Kinston, North Carolina, today to learn more about opioid addiction and our treatments or to schedule a Suboxone consultation.
