It is difficult to identify whether someone is addicted to opiates. However, there are some signs that you can look out for, such as frequent use of opioid medication in a way that has not been prescribed by a doctor, using opioids even when there is no reason to take them, hiding medication from others, or hiding prescriptions in order to obtain more prescriptions or doctor shopping for prescriptions.

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The length of time opioids remain in your bloodstream is calculated by a variety of variables, including the type of drug, the length of time the drug had been consumed, history of opioid usage, medical history of the user, weight, and gender. Accordingly, different tests can be used to detect opioid in the system.

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Mixing opiates with alcohol can lead to dangerous side effects such as dehydration, cardiovascular instability, rapid chages in blood pressure, abnormal behavior, irregular heart rate, respiratory arrest, lost of consciousness and even coma.

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Some opiates such as Vicodin and OxyContin may slow down the respiratory system. Therefore if you take opiates during a cold and if your respiration rate significantly slows down, it could lead to serious consequences such as organ failure and even death. Opiates can affect your immune system and prevent the body’s ability to fight off infection. Opiates could also have adverse interactions with other prescription cold medication.

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Dopamine is the neurotransmitter chemical released by the brain in response to opiates. It can create a feeling of extreme euphoria and pleasure.

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Research has shown that there is a connection between opioid abuse and diets of sugar-rich foods, and malnutrition.

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Opiates can have a damaging effect on the kidneys.

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Opiates are not nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but they have been found to possess significant anti-inflammatory effects in peripheral inflamed tissues.

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Some of the most common prescription opioids are oxymorphone, oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, codeine, and fentanyl.

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Most addictive opiates include codeine, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and oxycodone.

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