Over the last several years, much has been reported about the opioid crisis. The terms ‘opiate’ and ‘opioid’ are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. What is an opioid? What is an opiate? What is the difference? Understanding the differences and similarities can be confusing, especially if you or a loved one has been struggling with addiction and is considering seeking help from an opiate detox center. However, learning more about opiates, opioids, and addiction can empower you to make informed decisions about your treatment and recovery.
Opioids vs. Opiates? Are They the Same or Different?
One of the reasons it can be a bit confusing to tell the difference between opiates and opioids is that one term is broader than the other. Opiates are naturally produced from parts of the opium poppy. The term opioids, on the other hand, describes both natural and synthetic drugs that are based on the molecules found in the opium plant. So, to sum up, all opiates are opioids, but not all opioids are opiates.
Some examples of opiates are:
- Heroin
- Morphine
- Opium
- Codeine
Some examples of synthetic (or semi-synthetic) opioids are:
- Oxycodone
- Hydrocodone
- Fentanyl
- Methadone
- Tramadol
Both opiates and opioids are extremely potent and because of that can easily lead to a dependency or addiction.
Are Opiates and Opioids Both Addictive?
The short answer is yes; opiates and opioids carry a very high risk of abuse and addiction. Some opiates like heroin are so dangerous that they are classed as Schedule I by the United States Government, meaning they are too dangerous to be used, even in a medical setting. Many other opiates and opioids are prescribed by doctors to treat severe pain or other conditions but still carry a risk of abuse and addiction if not treated with caution.
Unfortunately, many people who start using opioids prescribed by their doctors can find themselves in trouble when they decide to stop or when they can no longer acquire the drugs through legitimate prescriptions. Even though our society perceives ‘drug addicts’ as being poverty-stricken, dangerous, and even criminal people, the truth is that addiction can happen to anyone from any walk of life. Just like anyone can have a heart attack or be diagnosed with cancer, anyone can be struck down by the disease of addiction. Good people find themselves in need of help every day and often choose to seek treatment from an opiate addiction center.
Can an Opiate Addiction Treatment Center Help?
Studies have shown that people who participate in a treatment program for substance abuse have a far better chance of maintaining their recovery over time than someone who has not. Relapse can be part of the process, even under the best circumstances, but it may only be a small bump in the road for those who have built a support network as part of their treatment journey. At an opioid addiction treatment center, clients are offered a medically-assisted detox, medication-assisted treatment, or both to help them navigate the withdrawal process more comfortably. In addition, clients receive psychological therapy to allow them to address the root causes of their addiction and heal from trauma.
Discover How Liberty Health Services Can Help With Opiate Addiction
At our luxury treatment center located in Derry, New Hampshire, we offer our clients treatments and therapies based on best clinical practices. We are committed to walking with our clients and their families along their path to recovery. If you or someone you love has been struggling with opiate addiction, reach out to us today at 855.959.4521 and let our caring staff tell you what we can do to help.
