Opiate Addiction Help

Opiate (or opioid) painkillers – such as codeine, morphine, methadone and heroin – have similar effects to opium. They stimulate the opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system, producing feelings of well-being, relaxation and sleepiness. Regular and prolonged usage, when the intention becomes not only to treat pain, can lead to an opiate addiction and an unpleasant opiate withdrawal.

Symptoms and side effects of an opiate addiction

Physical dependence is common in regular users. Opiate withdrawal symptoms can include tremors, anxiety, yawning, sweating, runny nose, sleep disturbance, nausea, goosebumps, restlessness, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and muscle spasms. You can find out more about codeine addiction and the side effects of a codeine withdrawal on our specific Codeine Addiction Help page.

Opiate addiction treatment

If you, or someone you know, is abusing opiate painkillers, or are concerned about developing a dependency, you do not have to cope alone. Port of Call is here to support you and your family today. We know what a challenging and upsetting experience it can be to deal with such an addiction. But we can help you to navigate the right treatment at the right time and set you on a course to recovery.

What happens when I call Port of Call?

• You will speak in confidence to someone who will listen to what’s happening in your life.
• Your situation will be explored fully and appropriate treatment options and support will be given.
• You will speak to someone who understands addiction, someone who is in active recovery and someone who is able to provide you with un-biased and impartial information and advice.