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Be aware of these common signs of an Opioid Use Disorder (Heroin & Pain Medications)

  • Requesting refills too early
  • Cravings or a strong desire to use or misuse
  • Opioids
  • Recurrent use of Opioids despite harmful consequences
  • Taking Opioids in larger amounts or longer than intended
  • Taking someone else’s Opioids even for a legitimate purpose such as to relieve pain
  • Using Opioids in a manner that contradicts prescribing guidelines (e.g. combining Opioids with alcohol or other
    drugs)
  • Using Opioids in a manner other than intended (e.g. crushing, snorting, injecting)
  • An inability or refusal to reduce or discontinue the use of Opioids when recommended by a medical provider

 

Opioid use can lead to serious health issues, including addiction, overdose, and other harmful effects. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs to recognize when opioid use is becoming problematic.

Here are some key signs to look out for:

Physical Signs:

  1. Drowsiness or Sedation – Feeling excessively tired, drowsy, or “nodding off” frequently.
  2. Slowed Breathing – Slow or shallow breathing, which can be a serious sign of an overdose.
  3. Pinpoint Pupils – Constricted or very small pupils, even in bright light.
  4. Slurred Speech – Difficulty speaking clearly or appearing unusually slow or “out of it.”
  5. Nausea and Vomiting – Frequent bouts of nausea, vomiting, or constipation.
  6. Itchy Skin – Opioids can cause skin itching or a rash.
  7. Sweating – Excessive sweating or chills, even when not physically exerting yourself.
  8. Loss of Coordination – Difficulty walking or balancing, or unsteady movements.
  9. Severe Constipation – Chronic constipation is common with opioid use.

Behavioral Signs:

  1. Increased Use – Taking more of the drug than originally prescribed, or taking it more frequently.
  2. Obsessive Thinking – Constant thoughts about getting or using the drug, planning the next dose, or seeking out opioids from various sources.
  3. Changes in Social Behavior – Withdrawing from family, friends, or activities once enjoyed. Increased secrecy or lying about drug use.
  4. Doctor Shopping – Visiting multiple doctors to obtain prescriptions or using various pharmacies to fill prescriptions.
  5. Neglecting Responsibilities – Not fulfilling work, school, or personal obligations due to opioid use.
  6. Financial Issues – Spending large amounts of money to obtain opioids or engaging in illegal activities to obtain them.

Psychological Signs:

  1. Mood Swings – Severe changes in mood, ranging from irritability to euphoria to depression.
  2. Anxiety and Agitation – Feeling anxious, restless, or unusually agitated when not using the drug.
  3. Memory Problems – Difficulty recalling recent events or focusing on tasks.
  4. Paranoia or Delusions – Experiencing false beliefs, confusion, or feeling overly suspicious.

Signs of Overdose (Critical):

  1. Blue or Pale Skin – Especially on the lips or fingertips, indicating a lack of oxygen in the blood.
  2. Loss of Consciousness – Unresponsiveness or difficulty waking up.
  3. Slow or Irregular Heartbeat – A dangerously slow or irregular pulse.
  4. Breathing Problems – Breathing may stop or become very slow and irregular.
  5. Choking or Gurgling Sounds – This could indicate airway obstruction, a common sign of overdose.