Buprenorphine: A New Treatment for Opioid Dependence Part 2

For more info visit www.newsinfusion.com What is opioid dependence/addiction? Taking strong opioid painkillers, in large doses, for an extended period of time, can cause physical dependence in humans. This means when the medication is discontinued abruptly, withdrawal symptoms occur. This is normal physiology and does not require addiction treatment. However, if an uncontrollable compulsion develops and is accompanied by an increased quantity of drug to achieve the same effect, and opioid use continues despite negative consequences, such as loss of a job, then these conditions may be considered addiction and may require treatment. Opioid addiction is a brain disease Opioid addiction is a treatable chronic brain disease precipitated by fundamental, long-term, changes to the structure and functioning of this organ. Once someone becomes addicted, areas of the brain are altered from the normal healthy state. This is why addiction is classified as a disease. These are physical changes to the brain – not caused by lack of morals, controlled by willpower, nor cured by good advice. It’s a disease as is diabetes or cancer, and it is treatable.

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YouTube | November 13, 2008

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