Opioids

Opioids are a type of drug. In medicine, they are used to treat pain. However, they have serious side effects and can be highly addictive.

Fortunately, Guam and Micronesia have not been hit as hard as the US mainland in the opioid epidemic. However, opioid addiction and the manufacture of synthetic opioids are on the rise worldwide and in our island community. In fact, in a survey of Tohge's clients and peers, nearly 10% stated they have misused opioids. It is important to stay informed and vigilant.

Types of Opioids

Examples of the different kinds of opioids include:

Morphine

is the main ingredient in opium, and used in medicine. It is stronger than codeine.

Hydrocodone

is a prescription painkiller found in Vicodin.

Opium

comes directly from the opium poppy plant.

Heroin

is also derived from the poppy plant, but processed in a way to make it much stronger. Heroin is illegal.

Oxycodone

is a prescription painkiller and used in Percocet, OxyContin, & Roxicodone.

Codeine

is derived from the poppy plant & used in medicines like prescription cough syrup.

Fentanyl

can be prescribed, but is more commonly synthesized illegally.

Methadone

is a synthetic opioid and prescribed to treat Opioid Use Disorder.

FAQ

What is fentanyl?

While fentanyl is a prescription painkiller, it is commonly synthesized by illegal labs and sold on the black market. This illegal form is sold as is, or used as an additive for other drugs like heroin and cocaine. Fentanyl is also used in "pressed" pills, which are illegally made pills that imitate prescription painkillers, oftentimes without the consumer's knowledge.

Is "candy fentanyl"/"rainbow fentanyl" being given out to kids during Halloween?

A popular rumor that cartels are trying to get children addicted to fentanyl by disguising it as candy is unfounded and based on zero evidence. While illegal manufacturers may try to alter the appearance of a drug to disguise or entice customers, they have very little motivation to give it out for free, or to children. Fentanyl is expensive, and very strong.

Are all painkillers opioids?

Over the counter (OTC) medication like Tylenol 1 (acetaminophen), Advil and Motrin (Ibuprofen) are used for mild pain, but they are NOT opioids.

Is Xanax an opioid?

Xanax is a benzodiazepine. Benzos are a controlled substance available by prescription, have a sedating effect, and can be highly addictive and deadly; however, they are NOT opioids.

What is the difference between opiates and opioids?

There is some debate regarding the exact definitions of these words. "Opiates" and "opioids" are sometimes used interchangeably. The term "opiates" refers to natural opioids (like codeine, morphine, and heroin) only. "Opioids" can either refer to just synthetic opioids, but more commonly, we see "opioids" refer to any chemical, natural or synthetic, that affects the opioid receptors in the brain.