opiates neuropeptides FAQ

It depends on your situation. But there are several ways to get opioids:

It’s common to develop a dependence on certain medications if you use them for a long time. If you physically depend on a medication, you’ll have withdrawal symptoms if you stop using it. Symptoms of opioid withdrawal include:

Opioids can slow your breathing, and lower your heart rate and blood pressure, so talk to your doctor and make sure these medications are safe for you, especially if you’re taking other medications. There are other side effects. You can ease most of them by adjusting the dose. Or talk to your doctor about trying other medications. Taking up healthy habits, like exercise and eating better, can help, too. Be aware that some can affect your ability to drive. Common side effects include:

Don’t confuse tolerance and physical dependence with addiction, which is a brain disease marked by compulsive behavior. If you are addicted, you:

Opioids attach to receptors -- a part of cells -- found in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body. They reduce the sending of pain messages to the brain and reduce feelings of pain.