The Substance Abuse Disorder (SUD), including the use of opioid medications, in America is worsening more than ever and claiming thousands of lives every year.
Chronic pain patients are sometimes prescribed opioid medications. These block pain receptors in the nervous system, while also flooding the body with endorphins, which are most often known as the feel-good hormones. Partly because of this feeling, the patients may continue these medications and get addicted to them. This creates a vicious cycle of addiction and increased use of opioid medications. Added to this combination may be other medications and substances like sleeping pills and alcohol that may result in serious consequences, including death.