Windsor Counselling Services

Lindsay Laing, MA, RSW, RP, ICCAC, TITC-CT

Opioid Addiction

Opioids or opiates are the most frequently abused prescription drugs in Canada. Opioids that are available by prescriptions and over the counter include OxyContin, Percocet, Morphine, Hydromorphone, Demerol, and Codeine (cough syrup, Tylenol 1, 2, 3).

Opioid use is very addictive and can quickly lead to psychological addiction and physiological dependence. Physiological dependence means that the person had developed tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. Tolerance means that a person will need more of the drug to get the same effect or high and withdrawal means that stopping the use of the drug will create withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms from opioids resemble extreme flu-like symptoms including but not limited to:

Abdominal cramping
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhoea
Goosebumps/Chills
Insomnia
Muscle aches and pains
Hot/Cold sweats
Low energy
Irritability
Depression
Anxiety
Drug cravings
Yawning
Runny nose
Tearing up
Heart palpitations

If you or someone you love is addicted to prescription drugs, reach out for help to learn about treatment options. Lindsay Laing has over 15 years of experience working with people with Addiction and Opioid dependence. Call 289-971-1143 today.