Opiate Addiction Signs & Symptoms

Opiates, like prescription painkillers and heroin, are highly addictive drugs. With each level of dependence and addiction, the user will go through many different stages starting with feeling happy and content, all the way to angry and dangerously disturbed.

Euphoria

When a person first begins using opiates, they will seem more happy or content than usual. They may be giggly and talkative, yet very calm and sedate.

Listlessness

Opiates create a tranquil feeling in users. A person on opiates will move at a slower pace, talk slower, and appear sleepy and less alert.

Physical Symptoms

The pupils of a person on opiates will be very small, described as pinpoint. Though the size of the pupil changes depending on how much light is present, the eyes of a person on opiates will be noticeably smaller than everyone else's.

Nodding

With high doses of opiates, users will start to nod, meaning that they will temporarily fall asleep mid-conversation and even when standing. As a person's tolerance to opiates increases, this effect will occur less often.

Withdrawal

For a person addicted to opiates, they will exhibit symptoms of withdrawal if they cannot satisfy their craving. Signs include tremors, chills, a feeling of panic or agitation, and even violence and severe anger.

References

• Clear Haven Center
• Signs of Opiate Abuse
• The Acadia Hospital

Resources

• DrugRehab.net