Confusion about opioid dependence vs. abuse is common and understandable. After all, many of the factors involved in developing an opioid use disorder can be distressing and sometimes difficult to understand. While dependence and abuse signify different issues, each one can signal the need for help from an opioid addiction treatment program.
It’s often assumed that a person with opioid use disorder must also have opioid dependence, but that might not always be the case for each individual. To learn more about drug dependence and effective options for treatment, get in touch with the experienced team at Promises today.
Dependence vs. Abuse: How Do They Differ?
A person who has been prescribed opioids for pain or another legitimate medical condition may take their medication incorrectly—either on purpose or by accident. Taking too much, too little, or for anything other than the prescription was intended is considered misuse.
Drug abuse describes the excessive and persistent taking of a substance for non-therapeutic purposes. This includes prescription medications, illicit street drugs, and alcohol. Drug misuse can lead to drug abuse.
For example, if you take an extra dose of your prescribed dose of opioids to find additional pain relief on a bad day, that’s misuse. If you start taking an extra dose regularly because you enjoy the effect, that’s abuse.
Likewise, seeking opioids or other illicit substances for the sole purpose of getting “high” is abuse. There are many reasons people abuse drugs. Many people struggle with unhealed trauma or mental health concerns that have been undiagnosed or untreated.
Self-medicating can bring temporary relief, but all forms of drug abuse are dangerous and can lead to dependence and addiction.
Understanding Opioid Dependence
Opioids react with brain receptors and cause an increase in the production of dopamine and other “feel good” chemicals. This is what causes the feelings of euphoria associated with opioids. Taking opioids regularly for extended periods changes the way your brain works.
In an attempt to maintain balance, the brain stops producing these chemicals on its own. In time, brain receptors are no longer able to produce them and become dependent on opioids to trigger production.
Addiction and dependence often go hand-in-hand, but they are different conditions. Consider that a person who takes medication to manage high blood pressure is “dependent” on their medication but only in order to perform the function their body can’t. Also, there are no euphoria effects for a person to chase with blood pressure medication. As a result, the possibility of abuse is remote.
Opioids can be useful as medications. However, their highly addictive qualities mean that there’s always the possibility of abuse and/or dependence. This is why it’s crucial to use them under strict medical supervision and explore alternative pain management options when possible.
Symptoms of Opioid Dependence
If you’re concerned that you or someone you love is becoming dependent on opioids, watch for these warning signs:
- Developing a high tolerance for the substance (needing larger and more frequent doses)
- Withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking opioids
- Anxiety
- Difficulty functioning without the drug
- Fearing you are unable to control drug levels
- Losing interest in other activities
- Risky behaviors, like driving while under the influence or risky sexual behavior
- Thinking about trying or actually experimenting with other substances
- Mixing opioids with alcohol to increase the effect
Recognizing opioid dependence before it develops into opioid addiction can simplify recovery. Without experiencing the emotional desire for and connection to opioids, coping with the loss of the drug is less intense.
Start Your Recovery with Opioid Addiction Treatment at Promises Today
Opioid abuse and dependence aren’t the same thing, but they are related, and both issues could indicate a higher risk of developing opioid use disorder. Abuse is understood as taking opioids for the purpose of altering your mood and feelings. Dependence on opioids is the need to take the substance simply to function.
Opioid use disorder is a serious condition that can lead to severe health problems, including fatal overdose. Evidence-based treatments and support from mental health professionals can help you break the cycle of opioid dependence. Contact Promises at 844.875.5609 or use our online contact form to learn more about how our program can help.