Definition of «opioid»

An opioid is a type of drug that is derived from the poppy plant and has strong pain-relieving properties. Opioids include drugs such as morphine, heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl, among others. They are commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain but can also produce feelings of euphoria or a "high" when taken in excessive amounts. Opioids act by binding to specific receptors in the brain and nervous system, reducing the perception of pain and producing a sense of well-being. However, they can be highly addictive and have serious side effects if not used properly.

Sentences with «opioid»

  • But another result of the current opioid epidemic is that the number of children entering foster care due to parental substance abuse has risen sharply in recent years. (chronicleofsocialchange.org)
  • The current epidemic of opioid use has been called the worst drug crisis in American history with associated overdose deaths building across the nation. (solutionfocused.net)
  • The family also used the announcement as an opportunity to talk about the ongoing opioid crisis. (businessinsider.com)
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