Opiates are a class of drug derived from the opium poppy plant, within the broader class of opioids, which include opiate-like chemicals (natural, synthetic/prescription). In 2017, over 5 North Carolinians died each day from an unintentional opioid overdose. And in our state, more people die from opioid overdoses than car crashes. In the United States, more than 130 people every day decease after overdosing on opioids and kill more Americans than car crashes or gun violence. Opioids are narcotic analgesics which reduce the intensity of pain signals reaching the brain without producing unconsciousness. These drugs generate their effects on neurons by binding to receptors on neuronal cell membranes which include 3 main opioid receptor classes. Endorphins and morphine also reduce synaptic inhibition in 3 ways in order to lower pain. Consequences of long-term opiate use include addiction, tolerance, sensitization, and dependence. Treatment for opioid abuse is multidimensional and can be stigmatized. This presentation will explain how opioids - morphine work in the body on a neuronal level as well as provide a glimpse on the medical viewpoint on the state of the opioid epidemic in western North Carolina. This presentation is a work of a project that investigates the physiological mechanisms, medical perspective, and social correlates of opioid use and addiction. Join us for Carriedelle Fusco’s RN, talk on the opioid epidemic in western North Carolina on Thursday, April 25 at 12 pm in the Rhodes Robinson room 125 (lecture hall).
