Painkiller Addiction

Effects of Common Painkillers

Painkillers, also called opioids, are prescription medications used to relieve pain. Doctors typically prescribe painkillers to a patient who has recently had surgery and may be in pain. When used properly, painkillers can be effective at decreasing pain levels.

Painkillers work by breaking down and attaching to proteins in the brain called opioid receptors. These receptors are also found in the spinal cord, gastrointestinal tract, and other organs. Once attached, the painkillers can reduce the perception of pain felt by the individual.

When an individual in not in pain, yet still uses painkillers, the effect on the brain can result in a relaxed, euphoric feeling. This happens when the medication affects areas of the brain that are connected to how we perceive pleasure. This is often the effect felt when painkillers are abused or taken without a prescription, and it is why repeated use can lead to addiction. Individuals who abuse painkillers may yearn for that relaxed, “high” feeling the medications may provide.

These types of prescription drugs typically come in pill form. People can become addicted to painkillers when they use them without a prescription, use larger doses than prescribed or combine painkillers with alcohol or other drugs.