If you suspect someone in your life is addicted to opioids or other prescription drugs, here are signs to look out for:
- Uncontrollable urge to use opioids or painkillers
- Cravings
- Erratic sleep patterns or being frequently tired
- Lack of energy and weight loss
- Flu-like symptoms
- Financial problems
- Stealing
- Avoiding interactions with family and friends
Opioids and other prescription drugs attach themselves to brain receptors that release dopamine throughout the body. The short-term effects of this can help people relax and feel good, but taking the drugs for more than their intended use can be seriously harmful. From small things such as confusion and sleepiness, to bigger impacts such as coma, irreversible brain damage and even death, this addiction has devastating consequences.