Opiate

An opiate is a type of narcotic drug derived from opium, or a synthetic drug with similar effects. These substances primarily act on the central nervous system, producing effects like pain relief (analgesia), drowsiness, euphoria, and slowed breathing. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body. Prolonged use can lead to physical dependence and addiction, characterized by withdrawal symptoms if the drug is stopped. Medically, opiates are often prescribed for severe pain, but due to their addictive potential, they require careful monitoring and are often employed as a short-term solution.

Opiate meaning with examples

• The doctor prescribed an opiate to manage the patient's post-surgery pain, offering much-needed relief. However, they also warned about the drug's potential for addiction, advising careful adherence to the prescribed dosage to prevent dependence, highlighting the importance of monitoring the medication.
• After her car accident, she was given an opiate to help ease the sharp pain in her leg. The quick action of the medication helped to keep the pain from escalating to a much higher degree allowing for a calmer patient experience.
• Many people are suffering from an addiction to opiates, starting from prescription use. Their bodies have become dependent on the opiate to function properly and will often become difficult to operate without it.
• The illicit production and distribution of opiates, such as heroin, continue to be a major problem. The illegal nature of the substance allows for a much more dangerous experience for the user due to unknown compounds.
• When going through opiate withdrawals, patients can experience excruciating pain, which highlights the severity of addiction. Some patients will use other substances to cope with the physical and mental challenges faced during the withdrawal process.