Quick Scoop

Opioids are a class of drugs that mainly relieve pain by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and body. They can be made from the opium poppy plant or created in a lab, and they include both prescription pain medicines and illegal drugs like heroin.

What They Do

Opioids can reduce moderate to severe pain, and doctors sometimes use them after surgery, for serious injury, cancer pain, cough, or diarrhea. Common examples include morphine, codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl.

Important Risk

Opioids can be addictive and may lead to opioid use disorder or overdose, especially when misused. Because of that, they should be used only as prescribed and with careful medical guidance.

In One Line

Opioids are powerful pain-relieving drugs that can help medically, but they also carry serious risks if used incorrectly.