An opioid is
a narcotic drug that is derived through synthetically from opium that binds to
opioid receptors in the body in a way similar to opiates. Opioids are not
exactly the same as an opiate, which is a natural product of the resin of the
opium poppy and one of the world’s oldest drugs. Both opioids and opiates
provide an analgesic – or painkilling – effect on the body by decreasing pain
perception and increasing pain tolerance.
Opioids are
prescribed by doctors as painkillers and also sometimes as a cough suppressant.
Side effects of opioids includes unconsciousness, slowing of the respiratory
system and altered mental states, including euphoria.
Opioid
dependence and addiction is a risk for patients prescribed the drugs in this
class, and acute withdrawal sickness could occur if usage is abruptly
discontinued.
These are the more popular narcotic
painkillers on the market today: