Opioid and Prescription Drug Use: On the rise!

The abuse of and addiction to opioids such as heroin, morphine, and prescription pain

relievers is a serious problem that affects health, social, and economic welfare of all societies. According to the U.S. National Institute of Drug Abuse (2014), it is estimated that between 26.4 million and 36 million people abuse opioids worldwide. In the United States an estimated 2.1 million people suffered from substance use disorders related to prescription opioid pain relievers in 2012 (NIDA, 2014).

Prescription opioid and heroin abuse in the United States needs to be addressed, as the consequences have been devastating to communities, families, and individuals. Furthermore, the use of opioids and heroin are on the rise. In an article published by the American Society ofAddiction Medicine (n.d.), researchers stated that drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental overdose in the United States. 20,101 overdose deaths related to prescription pain relievers, and 12,990 overdose deaths related to heroin were reported in 2015.

People who abuse opioid and prescription drugs can seek help. Physicians can help patients recognize that a problem exists and provide treatment therapy. According to the U.S. National Institute of Drug Abuse (n.d.) one of the most common forms of treatment is called behavioral treatment, which includes individual, family, or group counseling. This treatment can help patients improve personal relationships and their ability to function at work and in the community.

Written by Mid-State Technical College Student - Tara