They are most commonly known as oxycodone or OxyContin, hydrocodone, and fentanyl, as well as the illegal street drug, heroin (Opioid Addiction 2016 Facts & Figures). They work by altering the release of dopamine, which is the natural hormone the brain releases as a way of rewarding itself, as well as blocking pain receptors in the brain (Kosten and George, 13-20). Opioids have been proven to be effective in treating pain, but they can lead to chemical dependency and addiction when they are used for a long period of time, or outside the realm of their
They are most commonly known as oxycodone or OxyContin, hydrocodone, and fentanyl, as well as the illegal street drug, heroin (Opioid Addiction 2016 Facts & Figures). They work by altering the release of dopamine, which is the natural hormone the brain releases as a way of rewarding itself, as well as blocking pain receptors in the brain (Kosten and George, 13-20). Opioids have been proven to be effective in treating pain, but they can lead to chemical dependency and addiction when they are used for a long period of time, or outside the realm of their