WHAT IS AN OPIOID? An opioid (sometimes called opiate) drug is a prescription drug that is used to relieve pain. They are derived from the poppy plant and are prescribed under the more commonly known names of codeine, morphine, hydrocodone and oxycodone, as well as others.

Many do not realize that the same ingredient used to make these prescription medications is chemically altered into the illegal drug heroin.

Often times, heroin addiction starts by taking opioid prescription medications. A person can easily become addicted to one of these painkillers in just one prescription. The body builds a tolerance to the medication, requiring the individual to take more and more of it to experience the same level of relief. Over time, the person is taking more than prescribed and becomes dependent on the medication in a different way. They no longer need it to feel better, but to avoid feeling sick from the addiction.

If a person becomes addicted to a prescription opioid and can no longer obtain prescriptions legally, they may turn to heroin as a replacement.

Sadly, an injury, accident, or surgery, where a prescription opioid is used for pain management, can lead to a lifelong illness and addiction if not carefully managed.

For more information on opioid facts, visit Heroin and Opioid Awareness | Opioid Facts (justice.gov).