Opioid dependence

Opioid Dependence is a medical condition characterized by an individual's inability to stop using opioids despite the negative consequences of continued use. It is a form of substance dependence, specifically involving opioids such as heroin, morphine, oxycodone, and fentanyl.

Definition

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines opioid dependence as a problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. This is manifested by at least two of the following symptoms within a 12-month period:

• Opioids are often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.
• There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control opioid use.
• A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain the opioid, use the opioid, or recover from its effects.
• Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use opioids.
• Recurrent opioid use resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home.
• Continued opioid use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of opioids.
• Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of opioid use.
• Recurrent opioid use in situations in which it is physically hazardous.
• Continued use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the substance.
• Tolerance, as defined by either a need for markedly increased amounts of opioids to achieve intoxication or desired effect, or a markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of an opioid.
• Withdrawal, as manifested by either the characteristic opioid withdrawal syndrome, or opioids (or a closely related substance) are taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for opioid dependence often involves a combination of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), counseling, and support groups. Medications used in MAT include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These medications work by blocking the euphoric effects of opioids, reducing cravings, and mitigating withdrawal symptoms.

See also

• Opioid use disorder
• Opioid overdose
• Opioid epidemic

Opioid dependence Resources
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