Why Are Opioids Addictive?

Opioids are meant to help manage short term pain. But unfortunately, opioid abuse is common, and opioid addiction is a big problem — opioids are involved in about 75% of accidental overdoses every year.

Opioids are addictive because they release dopamine to our brains, the same chemical that is released when we do pleasurable things. Because opioids release so much dopamine, it quickly becomes difficult for regular activities that used to give us pleasure to compare — we begin to crave and seek out opioids to create that good feeling.

Dr. Laura Erickson-Schroth, Chief Medical Officer at The Jed Foundation, helps us understand why opioids are addictive, walks us through opioid withdrawal symptoms, and explains the dangers of fentanyl, one of the most prevalent opioids in our country. Luckily, there are also very effective treatments for opioid addiction and withdrawal — Dr. Laura shares more about available medications and treatment options.

#mentalhealth #JED #opioidaddiction #drugabuse

0:00 Why are opioids addictive?
1:00 Why do people become addicted?
1:57 What is fentanyl?
2:54 What are the treatments for opioid addiction?
3:29 If someone is still addicted to opioids what can they do to prevent overdose death?
4:18 What is Naloxone or Narcan?