ReVIDA® Talks Risk Factors for Opioid Use Disorder

Newport, TN - ReVIDA® Recovery recently released a blog exploring the risk factors for opioid use disorder, often referred to as OUD. Their facilities are located throughout Appalachia, and they work with those living with an opioid use disorder. ReVIDA® Recovery’s mission is to help anyone who comes through their doors to reclaim their lives.

“Opioids and opiates are both substances that are used for pain relief. The most significant difference between opioids and opiates is that opioids are synthetic, while opiates are often natural. They include substances that can be prescription or illicit, such as fentanyl, heroin, Oxycontin® (oxycodone), Vicodin® (hydrocodone), and morphine. When someone takes more than they are prescribed or takes opioids for long periods, this can lead to dependence, which leads to an opioid use disorder. This can include side effects of intense cravings, having difficulty stopping the use of opioids even when you want to, and increasing the dose over time to receive the same effects as before. People often develop an opioid tolerance as time passes, so they need to increase their dose,” the article reads.

There are several risk factors for developing an opioid use disorder, such as genetics, poverty, peer pressure, and societal factors. While genetics is thought to play a role in developing an OUD, there is no specific individual gene that contributes to it. Having any of these factors does not guarantee the development of an opioid use disorder, it only increases the risk of possible development.

Peer pressure can also be an influence in developing an opioid use disorder. While peer pressure can be positive – such as a friend encouraging another to apply for a dream job – it can also be negative. The same scenario can occur but with one friend offering another to try opioids. This can come in different forms, whether that be through direct asking or telling someone to do something or the person being around others who are engaging in opioid use.

“Doctors prescribe some opioids to treat moderate to severe pain. Prescription medications include Vicodin® (hydrocodone), OxyContin® (oxycodone), Kadian® (morphine), Opana® (oxymorphone), fentanyl, and codeine. When prescribed by a doctor, they are typically given for short periods only. However, even a short stint of use can result in an opioid use disorder when they are taken in a way other than the way they were prescribed, for their effect, or when someone takes someone else’s prescription. When prescription opioids are misused, they might be swallowed but can also be crushed, opened, dissolved, injected, or snorted. The effects of opioids can include feelings of relaxation and happiness while also controlling a person’s pain. This encourages the person taking them to want to continue to take them,” the article continues.

Depression, anxiety, and opioid use also have links between them. Long-term opioid use can cause depression and anxiety to develop. On the other hand, depression and/or anxiety can lead to someone using opioids to treat their symptoms. Lastly, it is noted that either depression and anxiety or OUD can exist simultaneously without being related.

ReVIDA® Recovery has been at the forefront of the opioid crisis throughout the Appalachian area and has been working to connect care to the residents. Their program consists of flexible, outpatient services as well as medication-assisted treatment. They offer same-day appointments and accept Medicaid as well as other insurance to pay for treatment.

To learn more about ReVIDA® Recovery, call 423-556-8868 or visit their website.