How quickly can an opioid addiction start? It’s a question that is on many people’s minds as the opioid epidemic continues to worsen. The good news is that addiction can be treated, and many different treatment options are available. This blog post will discuss the various stages of opioid addiction and how it can be treated.
How can you tell if you or a loved one is addicted to opioids?
Taking opioids in larger doses than prescribed or for a longer period of time than prescribed: This is one of the most common signs of addiction. It means that the person is using the drug more frequently or in higher doses than what was intended.
Taking opioids in different ways than prescribed: This includes crushing pills and snorting them or dissolving them in water and injecting them. These methods increase the risk of overdose and other
Taking opioids for non-medical reasons, such as to get high: This is a clear sign that the person is addicted to the drug.
Neglecting important responsibilities at work, school, or home: This is another common sign of addiction. The person may start missing work or school more often, or they may stop taking care of their responsibilities at home.
Having risky behaviors: This can include driving while under the influence of opioids, engaging in risky sexual behavior, or taking part in other dangerous activities.
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms: These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, shaking, and anxiety. Withdrawal symptoms typically occur when the person stops taking opioids suddenly.
How does an addiction start?
Most people who become addicted to opioids start out by taking them for legitimate medical reasons. Opioid painkillers are often prescribed for injuries or conditions that cause chronic pain. However, these drugs can be addictive, even when they’re used as prescribed.
Over time, the person may start to take more of the drug than prescribed, or they may start to use it more often. This can lead to tolerance, which means that the person needs more of the drug to achieve the desired effect. As tolerance develops, the person may start to experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking opioids.
Withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and sometimes severe. They can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, shaking, and anxiety. These symptoms can make it difficult for the person to stop taking opioids even if they want to.
How quickly does addiction develop?
The answer to this question is different for everyone. Some people may start to experience withdrawal symptoms after just a few days of taking opioids, while others may not develop an addiction for months or even years.
Some factors that affect how quickly addiction develops include:
The person’s biology: Some people are more susceptible to addiction than others. This may be due to genetic factors or differences in the brain.
Their mental health: People who have mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety are more likely to develop an addiction.
Their social environment: People who have a history of abuse or trauma or who don’t have a strong support system are more at risk of addiction.
Their age: Young people are more likely to develop an addiction than adults. This is because the brain is still developing and is more vulnerable to addiction.
Their use of other drugs: People who abuse other substances, such as alcohol or cocaine, are more likely to develop an addiction to opioids.
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Addiction is a serious problem that can start quickly and progress quickly. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, get help today. There are many treatment options available, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. But, with the right treatment and support, recovery is possible.