Definition: Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a medical condition involving the misuse of opioids, leading to physical dependence, cravings, and compulsive use despite harmful consequences.

Risk Factors: Risk increases with younger age of use, prolonged opioid use, high doses, history of substance abuse, mental health issues, and family history of addiction.

Signs and Symptoms: Common signs include uncontrollable cravings, inability to stop use, withdrawal symptoms, and neglect of personal responsibilities.

Physical Dependence vs. Addiction: Physical dependence can occur even with prescribed use, while addiction involves compulsive behaviors and loss of control.

Tolerance and Withdrawal: Over time, the body requires higher doses to achieve the same effect (tolerance), and stopping use causes uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

Health Risks: OUD increases the risk of death due to overdose, respiratory depression, infectious diseases (e.g., HIV, hepatitis), and organ damage.

Treatment Options: OUD can be treated with medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, alongside counseling and behavioral therapies.

Naloxone: Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose if administered in time.

Stigma: People with OUD often face stigma, which can prevent them from seeking help; OUD is a medical condition that requires treatment, not shame.

Recovery: Long-term recovery is possible through a combination of medical treatment, therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes. Relapse can happen, but it’s part of the recovery process, not a failure.

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