Opioids are a class of drugs that manage moderate to severe pain. There are prescription and nonprescription versions available. They have high addiction potential and could lead to opioid use disorder and overdose. It’s important to talk with your provider about the risks and benefits before taking opioids.
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Opioids, sometimes called narcotics, are a class of drugs that may reduce moderate to severe pain. Some opioids are naturally produced, while others are human-made.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Opioids interact with nerve cells to reduce pain signals from reaching your brain. This prevents you from feeling the sensation of pain while the drug is in your body. This drug can also create a sense of euphoria or a strong feeling of happiness. It does this by triggering your brain’s reward system.
Because of the way opioids make you feel, there’s a high risk of developing an addiction. While you may want to stop taking an opioid, your brain and reward system want more of it. You may feel psychologically and physically dependent on the drug. You may build your tolerance and seek out more of the drug to get the same effect. This could lead to a life-threatening opioid overdose.
Because of the high addiction potential, healthcare providers will closely monitor you if you need to take prescription opioids to prevent opioid use disorder and overdose. They’ll help transition you off opioids to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Some of the most common types include:
There are over 100 different types of opioids. These can be grouped into three categories:
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Your healthcare provider may prescribe an opioid to help you manage different types of severe pain, including:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves the use of some opioids to treat intense coughing and chronic diarrhea.
Prescription opioids come in various forms, including:
Opioids work by binding to opioid receptors in your body. These are in your central and peripheral nervous systems. They’re also in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Opioid receptors regulate many body functions, including:
Opioids may negatively interact with other medications, supplements or substances in your body. Interactions may be harmful. This is why it’s important to be honest with your provider about what you’re taking.
Medications and substances that may interact with prescribed opioid medications include:
Common side effects of opioids include:
Opioid use disorder is a complication of taking opioids. It can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening side effects, including:
If you or a loved one is at risk of an opioid overdose, you may consider carrying naloxone. This is an often life-saving opioid blocking medication. You can get it without a prescription at local pharmacies. Training is available so you can learn how to use naloxone safely.
Long-term side effects from opioid use may include:
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According to the FDA, opioids, like heroin and methadone, may stay in your body for one to three days. But the exact amount of time varies based on many factors, including:
The exact amount of time may vary based on how long you’ve been taking opioids, the dosage and how well your metabolism is working.
Opioids are very powerful drugs. You may need to take them, especially after a serious accident or if you’re living with chronic pain.
Due to its high addiction potential, your healthcare provider will monitor how effective this medication is while you’re taking it. Talk with your provider as soon as possible if you feel like you’re dependent on opioids or if they’re not working to manage your symptoms.
In some cases, opioids aren’t prescribed by a healthcare provider, and they’re available in other, non-legal forms. Using these substances increases your risk of overdose. You can stay safe by carrying naloxone. Know that you can always talk to a healthcare provider or reach out to the free, confidential National Helpline (SAMHSA at 1.800.662.HELP) when you’re ready.
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Comprehensive pain recovery treatment plans can help you manage your pain levels and symptoms more easily.
Last reviewed on 07/22/2025.
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