Simply stated, opiates are generally used by an individual to relieve pain or as a “recreational” source of pleasure, euphoria and relaxation. When these drugs are utilized in high doses or for a prolonged period of time, one develops a dependency upon them which is commonly referred to as “addiction”. While initially the person took the drug for pain relief or pleasure, he often continues to use it because the withdrawal symptoms are too debilitating to endure.

Not all controlled or habituating drugs are opiates. Obviously, Heroin and Opium are the common street opiate drugs. The some of the common prescription opiate medications are listed below.

If you are a prisoner to one of these drugs, you may free yourself with professional assistance and often without needing to go to a hospital or impersonal clinic.