Opioids

What Are Opioids?

Opioids are a class of drugs that are derived from, or mimic those, substances found in the opium poppy plant.

Opioids include both drugs that are prescribed for use by a healthcare provider and those that are made, obtained, and used illegally.

Despite the type of opioid use, they all function in the body similarly, as they activate nerve cells, known as opioid receptors, that then block pain signals between the brain and the body. This makes opioids popular for use in pain relief.

Categories of Opioids

Natural

Known as "opiates"; made from the seed pods of opium poppy.

Examples: Morphine, Codeine, and Opium

Semi-Synthetic

Made by chemically processing natural opioids, often in a laboratory.

Examples: Heroin, Oxycodone, and Hydrocodone

Synthetic

Contain no natural ingredients and are made entirely in a laboratory setting.

Example: Fentanyl

Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid Use Disorder is a form of substance use disorder in which a person engages in problematic patterns of opioid use that results in significant impairment and distress.

Like other substance use disorders, Opioid Use Disorder is a chronic but treatable condition that can impact individuals from all backgrounds and demographics.

Signs of an Opioid Overdose

Opioid overdoses are serious medical emergencies and must be dealt with promptly. An overdose occurs when a person takes a higher dose of a substance, in this case, opioids, than their body can handle. The effects of an overdose can happen within minutes or even several hours later.

If you see someone you suspect of having an overdose, please call 911 immediately

Unconsciousness and/or inability to wake; body is limp
Slow or shallow breathing; unusual sound (gurgling, snoring, choking)
Fingernails and/or lips turn a bluish/purple shade
Pale or clammy skin

What to Do if You Think Someone is Overdosing - CDC

Naloxone

Naloxone, often known by the brand name Narcan, is a type of opioid overdose reversal medications (OORM), which are medications that quickly reverse an opioid overdose. OORMs are what is referred to as an opioid antagonist, meaning that it binds to opioid receptors in the body, which blocks the effects of opioids.

There are a few things to keep in mind regarding Naloxone and other OORMs:

Naloxone and all OORMs are temporary solutions, anyone experiencing an opioid overdose, and who subsequently received Naloxone, should seek immediate medical attention.
OORMs only work on opioids, meaning that they will not be useful in the event of an overdose of a non-opioid substance.
Naloxone and other OORMs, like other medications, do expire, rendering them less effective than they were before their expiration date. Therefore, keeping track of expiration dates is important.

More Information

Safe Use, Storage, & Disposal

Use

Take medications exactly as prescribed.

Avoid taking opioids with other substances and medications.

Do not share medications.

Communicate with your doctor if needs or concerns rise.

Storage

Store prescription opioids, and other drugs, in a secure place outside of the reach of others.

Keep medications in original containers.

Store medicines in a cool, dry place.

Disposal

Dispose of prescriptions immediately after done with use.

Take any unused medication to a drug take-back box or day.
- Walpole Police Department has a drug take-back box that is always available!

If a take-back box or day isn't accessible, follow FDA disposal guidelines.