Opioids are either natural, partially synthetic, or synthetic drugs derived from the poppy plant or chemically synthesized in laboratories. They are a class of drugs, both legal and illegal. Legally prescribed opioids include morphine, codeine, and oxycodone. Illegal opioids include heroin.
Opioids help people cope with pain. They bind to natural opioid receptors in the brain, mimicking specific chemicals that are related to sensations of pain relief, pleasure, and reward. When used as prescribed, legal opioids are one of the most effective forms of pain relief. Since opioids have both pain-relieving properties and positive psychological properties, they are among the most abused substances currently available.
In 2016, 2.1 million Americans, aged 12 and older suffered from an opiate addiction. Approximately 600,000 were dependent on heroin and 1.5 million on prescription drugs. At its peak, more than 259 million prescriptions for opiate painkillers were written in the U.S. in 2012.
When taken as prescribed by a doctor, the potential for abuse and addiction is low, but used improperly, opioids can lead to physical dependence within 4-6 weeks. Psychological addiction can result in as little as two days. Drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the U.S. and opiates account for at least 70 percent of those casualties.
Some of the side effects of opioid use include:
Fatigue/drowsiness, Constipation, Breathlessness, A sense of elation, Bronchospasms -sudden restricted breathing, Physical and psychological dependence, Nausea, Confusion, Mood swings, Depressed respiration, Chest pain, Death (often due to use of more than one substance).
Opioid withdrawal symptoms:
Agitation, Anxiety, Runny nose, Sweating, Muscle aches, Insomnia, Abdominal cramping, Diarrhea, Dilated pupils, Nausea, Vomiting
Bio-Touch is shown to alleviate symptoms associated with opioid use and/or addiction. While not a substitute for standard medical care, Bio-Touch is an effective complement to medical protocols. Family members and friends can learn how to help each other feel better using Bio-Touch, without being concerned about negative side effects.
