When it comes to addictive drugs, you hear a lot about opioids and opiates. Some people even think that these drugs are the same. Although they’re similar, there are differences between opioids vs opiates. Below is a more in-depth look at what makes them different.
Opioids vs Opiates
While opioids and opiates have several scientific differences, everything boils down to natural vs synthetic. Opiates are natural drugs that come directly from the poppy flower. As a result, heroin, opium and morphine fall under the category of opiates.
Opioids are chemical compounds that a laboratory manufactures. Despite popular belief, they can be either synthetic or semi-synthetic. In either case, doctors don’t consider opioids to be natural. Despite the fact that these drugs aren’t natural, they replicate the effects of natural opiates.
Which Is More Addictive–Opioids or Opiates?
There’s no definitive proof that one is more addictive than the other. What people should remember, however, is that both are very addictive. It’s not so much about opioids vs opiates as it is about understanding the dangers of addiction to either.
Studies suggest that synthetics are more additive or at least more dangerous than opiates. The real danger is the other chemical compounds that the drugs contain.
However, even opiates aren’t safe from additives. The only way for people to buy opiates such as heroin is on the street. It’s rare if not impossible to find natural heroin because most of it contains additives. Street dealers add other ingredients to make it stronger.
On that same note, some street dealers cut heroin with other drugs or inorganic substances. Doing so turns a small amount of the drug into a larger amount to make more money. Unfortunately, the other ingredients are sometimes more dangerous than the original drug.
Who Is More Likely to Develop Opiate or Opioid Addiction?
Anyone can develop an addiction to either one of these drugs. However, some people are more at risk. For example, those with a history of addiction in their families have a higher chance. Likewise, people who suffer from other mental illnesses are more likely to develop an addiction.
Start Your Recovery Right With Proper Detox
Whether you have an addiction to opioids or opiates, it’s important to get help right away. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery in Houston, we provide opiate detox and opioid detox services. Our goal is to provide a safe place to detox from drugs. Some of the services that we offer include:
- Medical detox program
- Residential detox program
- Inpatient drug detox
- Family therapy program
- Group therapy program
- Individual therapy program
Don’t get lost in the battle between opioids vs opiates because both are addictive. Focus on getting the help you need from a detox center you can trust. Call us today at 866.516.8356 to learn more about our addiction programs.
