What You Need to Know About the Rise of Synthetic Opioids

 

As we navigate the complexities of modern medicine and drug use, synthetic opioids have increasingly become a focal point of discussions about pain management and drug abuse. Understanding the role of synthetic opioids is crucial for anyone looking to grasp their impact on society today, from individuals dealing with addiction amongst their loved ones to businesses trying to support an efficient, drug-free workforce.

What Are Synthetic Opioids?

Synthetic opioids are human-made drugs designed to mimic the pain-relieving properties of naturally occurring opiates. These drugs are created in labs and are engineered to interact with the opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body to reduce pain sensations and produce feelings of euphoria.

In the medical field, synthetic opioids are often prescribed for severe pain that does not respond well to other treatments. They are commonly used in cases of acute pain, such as pain following surgery, or in chronic pain when other medications have not been effective.

Synthetic Opioids vs. Natural Opioids

Natural opioids are derived from the opium poppy, and can include drugs like morphine and codeine. Compared to these traditional medications, synthetic opioids can be more potent and have a longer duration of effect. This makes them particularly useful in chronic pain management. However, their potency also means they have a higher potential for abuse and are often associated with a higher risk of overdose.

Some well-known synthetic opioids include:

• Fentanyl: Notoriously potent and used in treating severe pain, particularly in cancer patients.

• Methadone: Used both for pain relief and as a part of drug addiction detox programs.

• Tramadol: Used to treat moderate to severe pain, and considered less potent than other synthetic opioids.

Risks and Side Effects of Synthetic Opioids

The side effects of synthetic opioids can include nausea, drowsiness, constipation, and euphoria. More severe risks involve respiratory depression, addiction, and overdose. Their interaction with other substances, particularly alcohol and benzodiazepines, can exacerbate these risks.

Are Synthetic Opioids Inherently More Dangerous?

While all opioids should be treated with care, synthetic opioids can be particularly dangerous due to their high potency. Drugs like fentanyl are so potent that even a small dosage can be fatal. For context, fentanyl can be 50 times more powerful than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. This risk is compounded when these drugs are used illicitly or without proper medical supervision.

Synthetic Opioids and the Opioid Crisis

The development of synthetic opioids began in the early 20th century, with the aim of finding more effective and reliable pain relief solutions than their natural counterparts. Over the decades, as technology and chemical synthesis techniques improved, newer and more potent synthetic opioids were developed. However, this advancement also led to increased risks of abuse and addiction.

Synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, significantly exacerbated the opioid crisis due to their extreme potency and widespread illicit use. Initially driven by the over-prescription of opioid medications like oxycodone, the crisis intensified as tighter regulations pushed those addicted to prescription opioids towards illicit synthetic options, which are often cheaper and more accessible. The deadly impact of these substances, often mixed unknowingly with other drugs, has led to a sharp increase in overdose deaths, with up to 100,000 people dying from opioid overdoses each year.

Tips for Using Synthetic Opioids Safely

• Follow Prescriptions Carefully: Always use medications as directed by a healthcare provider.

• Monitor for Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects and contact a medical professional if they occur.

• Avoid Mixing Drugs: Do not combine opioids with other drugs, especially alcohol, without consulting a doctor.

• Store Safely: Keep medications out of reach of others and dispose of unused medication properly to prevent misuse.

Signs Someone Is Struggling with Synthetic Opioid Abuse

Synthetic opioid abuse is a serious concern due to the potent nature of these drugs and the severe health risks they pose. Recognizing the signs of abuse can help in identifying individuals who may need intervention and support, from friends and family members to employees.

Physical Signs

• Drowsiness or Sedation: Excessive sleepiness and prolonged periods of nodding off can be signs of opioid abuse.

• Slowed Breathing: Opioids significantly depress the respiratory system. Observing slowed or shallow breathing is a critical warning sign.

• Constricted Pupils: Known as miosis, this condition involves noticeably small pupils even in dim lighting.

• Itching or Flushing: Users may experience intense itching or flushed skin, particularly on the face.

• Nausea and Vomiting: Frequent nausea or vomiting without a clear medical cause can be a sign of opioid abuse.

• Constipation: Opioids slow the digestive tract, which can lead to chronic constipation.

Behavioral Signs

• Withdrawal from Social Activities: A sudden lack of interest in social engagements or activities that were once enjoyed.

• Changes in Habits or Appearance: Neglecting personal hygiene or dramatic changes in eating and sleeping patterns.

• Secretive Behavior: Being unusually secretive or deceptive about activities and whereabouts.

• Financial Problems: Unexplained borrowing of money or the sudden sale of valuable possessions could indicate funds are being diverted to support drug use.

Psychological Signs

• Mood Swings: Rapid and unexplained changes in mood or emotional state.

• Anxiety or Depression: Increased signs of anxiety, depression, or other significant changes in mental health status.

• Decreased Motivation: Lack of interest in goals, career, or educational pursuits.

Health Issues

• Tolerance and Dependence: Needing increasingly larger doses to achieve the same effects or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug.

• Frequent Flu-like Symptoms: Regular episodes of feeling unwell, which could indicate withdrawal symptoms.

• Overdose Risks: Episodes of losing consciousness or experiencing severe respiratory depression could indicate overdoses, which require immediate medical intervention.

Recognizing these signs early can lead to more timely and effective interventions, including detoxification, therapy, and potential medication-assisted treatments. It's crucial to address synthetic opioid abuse as soon as possible to minimize the risk of long-term health consequences or fatal overdose.

Get the Confirmation You Need with Countrywide Testing

Whether you’re trying to support a loved one struggling with addiction or maintain a safe, drug-free workplace for your staff, recognizing the signs of synthetic opioid abuse is a step in the right direction. The next step is reliable drug testing, which can help you identify drug misuse and get individuals the help they need. Whether you’re interested in easy on-site testing or more intensive, lab-tested results, Countrywide Testing has drug testing services to suit your needs.

Countrywide offers various drug testing products for workplace testing, healthcare emergencies, law enforcement purposes, and individuals trying to stay clean after rehab. Our drug testing kits are convenient and affordable and ship to you quickly. Plus, our lab is accredited by SAMHSA, so you can rest assured that your test results are handled according to the highest industry standards.

Want more information on how Countrywide can support drug safety in your personal or professional life? Just contact our team today.