Outcomes Of Dependence On Semi-Synthetic Analgesic
Semi-synthetic pain killers are widely used and prescribed by doctors especially during post surgical treatments nowadays. One of the most popular brands of semi-synthetic analgesics is Buprenorphine. Although this particular medication was originally marketed for relieving pain, this is now being used in managing opioid abuse either as Subutex or Suboxone. Buprenorphine is a semi synthetic opiate that’s labeled as one of the opioid drugs. So, what is dependence on Buprenorphine then?
Studies show that opioids make their users achieve a euphoric high and crave for more of them to experience such highness again. This makes opioids, such as Buprenorphine, very addictive. Basically, Buprenorphine is being prescribed by doctors to individuals who are suffering from mild or moderate pain. However, it becomes a ground for drug addiction as sufferers most likely abuse them. Majority of the users don’t have the awareness as to when they actually turn to become dependents and then they become sufferers of abuse of buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is also effective in treating addiction, which is called replacement or maintenance.
Buprenorphine functions when it is attached to the receptors in the nervous system. Buprenorphine medication may cause psychological dependence other than addiction or physical dependence. Among the many side-effects often experienced by Buprenorphine addicts are:
* Agitation
* Excessive sweating
* Runny Nose
* Vomiting
* Abdominal cramping
* Sleep loss
* Looseness of the bowels
* Anxiety
* Nausea
The central nervous system or cns is also influenced by buprenorphine addiction as it serves as a depressant and slows down the function of the respiratory system. It also increases the risk of being overdosed, which may lead to death. This is really true when it is taken together with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other depressants for the nervous system. Individuals who often abuse Buprenorphine may also suffer from hypo-ventilation and sleep apnea. Among other effects caused by the drug on CNS include weakness, slurred speech, nervousness, sedation, dizziness. On the other hand, the psychiatric effects of addiction to Buprenorphine are psychosis, dysphoria, auditory and visual hallucinations, depression, and euphoria.
The progressive and habitual use of Buprenorphine depends on the mind-set of the users affecting all kinds of interpersonal relationships. The abusers of Buprenorphine also experience adverse effects and consequences such as the following:
* Loss of personal ambition and goals in life
* Difficulty in sleeping
* Decrease in appetite
* Impotence or impaired libido
* Self-criticism
* Indifference to relatives as well as to family-centered activities
Furthermore, individuals who abuse Buprenorphine often attempt to look for ways and means on how to get it, even though its against the law. There are also individuals who try to nullify the prescriptions to have more of it.
