RSS Morphine Addiction
What is morphine and why is it so addictive?
The painkiller morphine is by far one of the most powerfully addictive and psychoactive drugs on the streets today. It is oftentimes referred to as the prototype of opioids which partially explains why it is so addictive and why a tolerance to the drug builds up so quickly. Other examples of semi-synthetic opioid medications include OxyContin, Percocet, and Percodan, all of which exhibit highly addictive qualities. The onset of dependency results from the fact that tolerances to the drug build up rapidly.
Morphine addiction is both physical and psychological because of the way in which it activates the brain’s “reward system and the euphoric affect the individual experiences. Greater cravings result with increased doses as the individual attempts to achieve the high they did initially. Morphine is characterized by the way it inhibits a person’s ability to think properly and be aware of their surroundings. It renders the individual less conscious and impairments of this nature can be potentially harmful, especially when driving a vehicle.
Symptoms of morphine abuse or overdose
There are numerous signs and symptoms that are indicative of the presence of morphine abuse, addiction, and/or dependency which include:
- dilated or “pinpoint” pupils
- drowsiness or sleepiness
- fingernails and lips that have a bluish hue
- fluid build-up in the lungs
- nausea and vomiting
- respiratory difficulties
- skin that is clammy and cold
Morphine overdose can easily be fatal or result in the individual becoming comatose, hence the number of fatalities that occur each year. Morphine is also a concern of the DEA where primary drug threats in the US are concerned. Additionally, morphine addiction poses a serious public health threat according to health organizations and medical professionals.
Effective addiction treatment is only a phone call away
The Freedom Center can provide you with customizable program that will enable you to overcome your morphine addiction and eventually return home to society where you can live substance-free without the fear of relapsing. We understand that overcoming any addiction involves much more than ridding your body of the substance that is controlling your life. It takes a lot of dedication, desire, and determination on your behalf as well.
One of the aspects of our facility that results in a successful rate of recovery with our clients (70% or higher) are the courses and educational materials that we provide you with while you are undergoing the program. These courses enable you avoid those potentially harmful addiction triggers (events, people, and places) in your environment as well as relapse prevention techniques so that you can live substance-free once you return home.
For more information regarding the Freedom Center and our morphine addiction programs, please contact us at the toll-free phone number listed above.
