Many of us have probably heard the term ‘opioids’ or ‘opiates’ used interchangeably when referencing the category of drugs across this particular group of narcotics. When looking at opioids vs opiates, it has even become acceptable to just use opioids as a universal reference to the category, but make no mistake, there is most certainly a difference. Here we will explore both the similarities between opioids and opiates, the key differences and why deciphering between the two matters.
Opioids and opiates are very similar, and nearly the same except for a few subtle differences. Both drugs can be prescribed and used as a pain reliver, anesthesia, cough or diarrhea suppressant. Opioids and opiates is that they are both commonly found in substance use cases and have addictive tendencies for individuals who use them.
When taking any of these prescribed medications, the effects will vary slightly (based on the specific medication and dosage) but the general side effects of both opioids and opiates are:
Opioids and opiates probably sound interchangeable at this point, but the key difference lies in how opioids and opiates are chemically constructed.
The key differences between opioids vs opiates are in their chemical construction. Opiates are made from chemical compounds extract from nature, specifically the sap and fibers the poppy plant.
Common Opiates Include:
Opioids, on the other hand, are not naturally derived but are instead created in a lab and synthesized chemical compounds. There are some opioids that are considered partially synthesized or semi-synthetic but still fall into the opioid distinction.
Common Opioids Include:
The planned treatments for an individual who has found themselves addicted to opioids or opiates would likely seek the services of an inpatient treatment facility such as the one’s we have at Long Island Center for Recovery (LICR). Once in treatment, individuals receiving treatment would likely require medication assisted treatment (MAT) to safely detox and mitigate the effects of withdrawal symptoms which can be fatal in extreme cases. The accurate distinction of opioids, opiates, and/or the specific medications used by the individual receiving treatment is pivotal in prescribing the appropriate medication assisted treatment during detoxification. This goes beyond the simple distinction of opioid vs opiate, and the exact medication and amount used is important when developing the right treatment plan.
We hope this information was helpful in providing an understanding of the similarities and differences between opioids and opiates. If you or a loved one needs any additional assistance with addiction treatment services, please reach out to Long Island Center for Recovery at 1-800-344-5427, and we’d be happy to assist you or your loved ones in any way possible.
References:
Opioids or Opiates
https://usm.maine.edu/counseling-services/opiates-and-opioids/
Opiates or Opioids — What’s the difference?
https://www.oregon.gov/adpc/pages/opiate-opioid.aspx
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