Opioids (including natural, semi-synthetic, and synthetic versions) are powerful drugs used primarily to relieve pain. Natural opiates, like morphine and codeine, are derived from the opium poppy, while opioids like fentanyl and oxycodone are typically lab-made.
Some commonly prescribed opioids include:
- Oxycodone
- Oxymorphone
- Morphine
- Codeine
- Fentanyl
Heroin, though also derived from morphine, is an illicit opioid and is used exclusively for recreational purposes.
These drugs can create a strong sense of euphoria in addition to dulling pain, which is one of the reasons they carry such a high risk for misuse and addiction. While not everyone who takes prescription opioids develops a disorder, prolonged use or misuse increases the likelihood.