Do you know the opiate definition? It is critical to understand what these drugs are and how they work. Many times, we hear a great deal about opiates and opioids, but we are unsure which drugs are specifically involved here. With the help of our team at Bayview Recovery, you can work through any substance abuse disorder you’re facing. Then you can find the relief you need to improve your health.

What Is the Opiate Definition?

In its purest form, the opiate definition is a drug that contains opium, a natural substance that is known for its pain-relieving, natural high. Specifically, opiates are just natural substances. “Opioid” is a term that refers to the use of synthetic components that create the same type of reaction in the brain as opium.

Opium itself is a type of flower. Specifically, it is a poppy. Opiates are extracted from these flowers. The most common of them are codeine and morphine. A person can become addicted to opiates because of how powerful these chemicals are. Sometimes, they can be given in a prescription, such as after surgery or an injury, to reduce pain. In this case, they are used to treat moderate levels of pain.

Common Types of Opiates

There are various forms of opiates. Most people who abuse them start with a prescription. However, there are illicit opiates as well. There are two main types, antagonists and agonists.

Some opiates are antagonists. These are what addiction treatment specialists use to help people who have an addiction to opioids break their cycle of use. These drugs, such as Naloxone and Naltrexone, are far less addictive, though they help to create the same functions in the brain, allowing the mind to heal from its addiction.

Agonists are the second type of opiates. They are the more dangerous form because of how addictive they are. They work in the brain, creating the same endorphins that your mind naturally produces when pleasure exists. These drugs work to change the way the receptors in the brain work. This process creates addiction and limits the brain’s ability to function without the substance. Common examples of agonist opiates include morphine and fentanyl. Prescription-based include hydrocodone and oxycodone.

What Do Opiates Do to You?

If you’re using any opiate, you may be feeling a sensation of pain relief. That is their goal, to turn off the pain receptors in the brain and encourage the release of feel-good hormones called endorphins. However, opiates do much more. Because of the way they interact with the mind, they create addiction. That means you need more of the drug to get the same high, and you need to take it all of the time. If you don’t take it, you may suffer from withdrawal symptoms.

If You Have the Opiate Definition of Abuse, What Should You Do?

If you believe you are suffering from opiate abuse, your first step is to get immediate help. You will work alongside a professional who can help you to rid your body of the substance and then help you to rebuild your mental health.

At Bayview Recovery, we can help you with this in a variety of ways including through our:

• Partial hospitalization program
• Intensive outpatient program
• Traditional outpatient drug program
• Dual diagnosis treatment
• Extended care program
• Aftercare program

Our goal is to help you to regain the confidence you need to heal. That is why our treatments are always comprehensive and customized to meet your goals. They often include:

• Specific men’s and women’s treatment
• Medication assisted treatment
• 12-step programs
• Individual and group therapy program
• Holistic programs including white water rafting and skiing

If you or your loved one is struggling with addiction to opiates, it’s time to reach out for immediate help. Bayview Recovery offers a wide range of opportunities to help you.

Finding Help for Opiate Abuse at Bayview Recovery Can Empower You

If you are struggling with opiate use or any substance use disorder, you can rely on the team at Bayview Recovery for support. Understanding the opiate definition is only the first step. Let our compassionate, trusted team support you as you work to recover your health and wellbeing through comprehensive treatment. To learn more, call 855.478.3650 today.