Opioids vs opiates – the two terms are often used interchangeably but are often misunderstood. No matter which version you use, both types have contributed to the early death of over 480,000 people from 1999 through 2018, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These figures are very scary, especially if you realize you could be at risk. At Ethan Crossing Recovery, we provide you with the support you need to turn the corner and reach recovery if you are struggling with opioid or opiate addiction.
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Opioids vs Opiates – What Are the Differences?
There are differences between these two components. Here is a look at the differences between opioids vs opiates. The biggest difference comes from the makeup of the drug itself. Opiates are a natural version of the drug. These are derived from the opium poppy plant. They are natural in the sense that they do not require any type of chemical processing to create them. The most common types of opiates include morphine, codeine, and opium. Heroin, one of the most commonly abused substances on the illicit market, is an opiate. Opioids are based on the plant in terms of its desired effects. However, the components are derived from chemical processes. These synthetic products can be just as deadly and harmful as opiates, and in some cases, more so. Some common opioids include hydrocodone, fentanyl, and OxyContin. Vicodin is another example. If you are struggling with drug addiction, contact Ethan Crossing Recovery to learn more about our drug addiction treatment programs.
Why These Drugs Are So Dangerous
When you think about opioids vs opiates, one thing is important to remember. All forms of them are dangerous. Some opiates, such as hydrocodone (sold as Vicodin) and oxycodone (sold as OxyContin and Percocet) are prescription drugs. That means doctors often put people on these drugs to help with pain reduction. That can be helpful for the short term, but addiction can occur even at this point. Both types of drugs are dangerous because of their ability to create addictions. They are also dangerous because people can become tolerant to them, meaning they continuously need to ingest more of those drugs to achieve their desired goal high. That makes overdose very common. These drugs can also cause heart, liver, kidney, and lung problems. They can create cognitive impairment that does not improve either.
How to Get Help for Your Addiction
When it comes to addiction, opioid vs opiates is not as important. What is important is reaching out to a treatment center that can provide support to you. At Ethan Crossing Recovery, we offer a wide range of treatment options to help you manage your condition. This includes:
- Medical detox services
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- Residential drug treatment program
- Partial hospitalization treatment (PHP)
- Traditional outpatient treatment program
You can get help for your addiction. You can stop being dependent on these drugs. Take the first step and reach out for help from a trusted treatment center. With professional help and support, you can overcome addiction and live a life without alcohol or drug abuse.
Take Back Your Life with Help from Ethan Crossing
As you think about the differences in opioids vs opiates, it can become clear that you need to find a way forward for yourself or your loved one. You do not have to be another statistic or to find yourself giving up your life because of your drug use. At Ethan Crossing Recovery, we offer the treatment program that is right for your future. Contact us now at 833.691.0736 to learn more about the treatment options that we offer.