Our bodies produce endorphins to reduce our perception of pain and increase our sense of well-being.
The opioid molecule acts like an endorphin molecule. Our bodies allow opioids to bind to endorphin receptors. When opioids bind to these receptors, the perception of pain is reduced and well-being is increased.
Our bodies then stop producing endorphins – as they are no longer needed to control pain.
If we stop taking the opioid, we now have neither endorphin nor a drug, so we experience a rise in pain and a decrease of well-being. This causes a person to have withdrawal symptoms, including nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, convulsions and even death. This is called physical dependence, and it is a naturally occurring response that is outside of our control. Physical dependence can occur in as little as 72 hours after starting opioid medications.
Research shows that up to 75% of people keep taking opioids to avoid the painful withdrawal symptoms – NOT to control pain