subject: Know The Adverse Effects Of Narcotics [print this page] Narcotics are drugs that are intended to reduce pain or induce sedation. If this medicine is used beyond its therapeutic effects this is when addiction occurs.
Addictive effects
Narcotics are substances that affect the mood by stimulating the brain to release endorphins that are called the "happy hormones." Narcotic users experience a "high" feeling or euphoria, relief of pain and sedation that make this drug very attractive for them. However, after a long time use of these medications abusers develop tolerance that will push them to increase the dosage of narcotics to attain the same level of effects.
Adverse effects
With proper prescription from a medical practitioner, this drug has proven therapeutic effects, but if used against medical guidelines this medication has adverse side-effects which may lead to death. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, narcotics sold on the streets may contain additional substances which are unpredictable in effects and are oftentimes lethal. Without a doctor's order, abusers secure the drug in illegal forms posing a greater risk to their health.
Impacts on pregnancy
The use of narcotics has several effects on pregnancy, labor as well as delivery. According to studies, pregnant women who are narcotic addicts have decrease uterine contractions. Narcotics don't cause birth defects but it can cause respiratory depression and physical dependence in the newborn child. Side effects of an addiction from narcotics affect not just the narcotic addict but also the life inside the abusers' womb.
Withdrawal signs and symptoms
Withdrawal occurs when the addictive drug is abruptly discontinued. The patient's body is already used to the effect of narcotics that when discontinued suddenly it causes painful symptoms. The body accustomed to the drug now needs a higher dosage of narcotics to reach the desired effect. If this persists the patient will find it even harder to end the drug abuse.
Psychological dependence
When the withdrawal symptoms have passed, the body is healed but the patient is still fighting with mental dependence. The abuser have been used to the effects of narcotics that it's hard for them to adjust without the medication. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, there is a higher rate of relapse when the psychological cause of abuse is not resolved.
Treatment
There are rehabilitation facilities that could help narcotic abusers to eliminate the side effects from the abuse of narcotics. Seek advice from a licensed physician who specializes on drug abuse and discuss the treatment program which is suitable for you.
