The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) lists opium as a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act. Most opioids are Schedule II, III, IV or V drugs. Opium is a highly addictive, non-synthetic drug that comes from the poppy plant, and it is the chief source for many other opiate drugs, including morphine, heroin, codeine, oxycodone and others. It is grown in many countries throughout the world and is generally sold as a liquid, solid or in powder form. It can be smoked, injected intravenously, or taken in pill form. Opium addiction and dependence causes physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped abruptly. Detoxification from opiates is safer and less difficult when medically managed under a doctor’s supervision. If you believe that a loved one may have an opium addiction, or dependence on any other opiate drugs, you should become familiar with what typical opiate addict behavior looks like:
These are typical opiate addict behavior warning signs to watch for if you suspect that a loved one has an opium addiction. If you observe these signs, you should approach the individual and encourage him or her to seek help. While your efforts are worthwhile, individuals who are in denial about their addiction or not ready to get clean will typically not be receptive to getting help at first. It is important not to give up, because treatment for opium addiction can prevent your loved one and other struggling addicts from becoming drug overdose statistics.
Here are some drug overdose statistics as they relate to opiate addiction:
If you spend enough time with a person who displays opiate addict behavior, you may be present when the addict eventually goes through withdrawal. When an opiate addict suddenly stops taking opiates, withdrawal symptoms will begin to appear that include:
Opiate rehab facilities are very effective in helping those who exhibit opiate addict behavior to come to terms with their addiction. These facilities offer a variety of programs to address opiate addict behavior with a team that is comprised of addiction specialists, counselors, doctors and clinicians who work closely with each patient to help them break negative habits and adopt healthier lifestyles that support sobriety. Various forms of therapy are utilized to treat opiate addiction. These therapies include cognitive, behavioral, intensive psychotherapy, individual and group therapies, as well as medicinal treatment to help reduce cravings, anxiety, depression, or to address other mental health disorders.