Opioid Use Disorder: Signs and Treatment Options

Understanding Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid use disorder, also referred to as opioid addiction or opioid dependence, is a medical condition recognized by the American Psychiatric Association. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, it is a chronic brain disorder that involves cycles of relapse and recovery (nida-opioids). The disorder can involve prescription pain relievers, heroin, or synthetic opioids like fentanyl (cdc-fentanyl).

Over time, opioid use can change brain chemistry, making it difficult to stop without professional help (nida-treatment).

Signs and Symptoms

Common signs of opioid use disorder include: taking opioids in larger amounts or for longer than intended; a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use; spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from opioids; craving or strong desire to use; and continued use despite recurrent social, work, or relationship problems caused by the substance (nida-opioids). Physical signs can include drowsiness, constricted pupils, and weight loss. If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, talk to a doctor or other licensed clinician about an assessment.

FDA-Approved Medications for Treatment

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved three medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder: methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone (samhsa-treatment-options). Methadone is dispensed through specially licensed opioid treatment programs.

Buprenorphine may be prescribed by qualified clinicians in office-based settings. Naltrexone blocks the effects of opioids and is available as a monthly injection or daily tablet. A doctor or other licensed clinician can help determine which medication, if any, is appropriate for you.

Do not adjust or stop any medication without consulting your clinician.

The Role of Counseling and Behavioral Therapies

Behavioral therapies help people in treatment develop coping skills, address triggers for use, and build recovery-supportive behaviors (nida-treatment). Common approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy, contingency management, and motivational interviewing. These therapies are often provided alongside medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that combining medication with behavioral therapy can improve treatment retention and reduce illicit opioid use (nida-treatment-recovery).

Preventing and Responding to Overdose

Opioid overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Signs include slow or stopped breathing, blue lips or fingertips, and unresponsiveness. Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is a medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose and is available without a prescription at many pharmacies (cdc-naloxone).

The CDC advises keeping naloxone on hand if you or someone you know uses opioids, and learning how to use it (cdc-preventing-opioid-overdose). Call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose—Good Samaritan laws in many states protect people who seek help.

Crisis Support and Where to Find Help

If you are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This free, confidential service is available 24/7 and is staffed by trained counselors (samhsa-988). To locate a treatment facility, visit FindTreatment.gov (findtreatment-gov).

You can also contact your local health department or an opioid treatment program directory. Talk to a doctor or licensed clinician about the most appropriate care for your situation.