There are online articles that try to answer the question, “Are narcotics opiates?” The answer depends on what are narcotics and what are opiates. As you read through the articles, you will realize that the term “opioids” is also used when talking about narcotics vs. opiates. Interestingly, persons looking for answers include those hooked on opiate drugs and want to kick the habit. If this is you or a loved one, an opiate addiction treatment center in Palm Springs, CA, provides comprehensive drug addiction treatment that treats the underlying mental conditions contributing to your drug addiction to prevent future relapse.
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Are Narcotics Opiates or Opioids?
People have different ideas about what narcotics are and narcotics vs. opiates. They may even ask, “Are narcotics opiates or opioids?” It’s a great question since the two categories can be confusing. First, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), describes “narcotic” as “opium” and drugs made from opium (opiates). Secondly, synthetic or humanmade opioids are also narcotics. They include the illegal drug, heroin, and the following prescription painkillers:
- Fentanyl
- Oxycodone
- Hydrocodone
- Methadone
- Tramadol
Taking a Look at Narcotics vs. Opiates
When it comes to the differences between opiates and narcotics, people also want to know are narcotics opiates controlled by the DEA. “Narcotics” is the term describing two classes of drugs, namely, opiates and opioids. Both are narcotic drugs, whether they are natural or synthetic. However, opiates such as codeine and morphine come directly from opium. On the other hand, heroin and prescription opioids are made from opiates such as codeine and morphine. What’s more, opiates are controlled substances because they have a high potential for abuse.
Are Narcotics Opiates that Cause Addiction?
Opiates and opioids are highly addictive, habit-forming and can cause physical or psychological dependence or addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) describes opioids misuse and addiction as a “serious national crisis.”
The chemicals in the drugs attach to the natural opioid receptors in the brain and body. The drugs tell the brain to block and relieve pain. The main side effects of the process are happy feelings (euphoria) and calm. However, if someone smokes, snorts, or injects heroin or prescription opiates, they can end up addicted to drugs. Taking the drugs in those forms is called misuse or abuse as it increases the side effects and switches on the brain’s reward and pleasure system.
The user will then continue to crave the drug as soon as it starts to leave the body. If they do not take another dose, they will experience pain or other unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. At this point, he or she is dependent or addicted, which means they may continue drug abuse to feel pleasure and avoid the symptoms. As daunting as it may seem, you should know that opiate addiction treatment can help you recover.
How an Addiction Treatment Center in Palm Springs Can Help
There are several trusted opioid addiction treatment centers in California. Phoenix Rising is one of them. Our clients can benefit from a range of programs and behavioral therapy options all at one location. We structure our programs to give different levels of care based on the unique needs of each client. For example, those with severe addiction or a mental disorder preventing them from ending drug abuse can receive round-the-clock care in a residential treatment program.
Clients who do not need 24-hour access to medical and psychological care can decide on the intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, or standard outpatient program. Other drug addiction treatment programs offer at our dual diagnosis treatment center includes:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program
- Equine Therapy Program
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy Program
- Neurofeedback Therapy Program
Rise from the Depths of Opiate Addiction Like a Phoenix!
Opiate abuse may change your thinking and trick you into believing that it’s impossible to beat addiction. Our certified addiction specialists know this isn’t true. We will assess your needs and tailor a treatment plan to walk you through to recovery. You or a loved one can also benefit from our sober living and extended care (90-day) programs. No matter who you are, where you live, or what’s your cultural background, Phoenix Rising in Palm Springs, CA, can help. Feel free to call 8552328211 at any time to speak with a caring admissions counselor.
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