Opioids and Opiates: What’s the difference?
When it comes to treating pain and anesthesia, opioids and opiates are two common options. Although both opioids and opiates are categorized as narcotics, they differ in their chemical composition. Read ahead to learn more about opioids vs. opiates.
What are opiates?
Opiates are a class of drugs derived from the opium poppy plant. They are natural compounds that act on the body's opioid receptors, reducing pain perception and inducing feelings of pleasure and euphoria.
Examples of Opiates
Morphine
A potent opiate (opiate analgesic) used for severe pain relief in clinical settings and is legally available by prescription.
Codeine
A weaker opiate used for mild to moderate pain relief, and cough suppression, and is available both over-the-counter and by prescription.
Heroin
An illegal and highly addictive opiate that has no medical use.
What are opioids?
Opioids are similar to opiates, but the term "opioid" is used to describe both natural and synthetic drugs. They are derived from the opium poppy plant or are synthetic substances that mimic the effects of opium. Opioids are a class of drugs that act on the nervous system to produce pain relief, sedation, and a sense of well-being.
Common Examples of Opioids
Methadone
A synthetic opioid used for medication-assisted treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) or opioid addiction and chronic pain management.
Oxycodone
A potent opioid medication that is used for the treatment of moderate to severe pain.
Hydrocodone
Works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which helps to reduce the perception of pain.
Fentanyl
A powerful painkiller that is estimated to be 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Its potency also makes it a high-risk drug for abuse and addiction.
Opioids and opiates are effective pain management tools but carry a high risk of addiction and overdose and should only be used under close medical supervision.
Read more about opioids and opioids and opiates from goMDnow published blog.
Visit Us
At goMDnow, we provide ease to maintaining a drug-free workplace by providing a range of drug test services. Call 980-202-1466 for more queries and info.