Heroin and morphine are both powerful drugs that affect the body in similar ways. Both belong to the opioid family and are commonly abused due to their euphoric and sedative effects. If you’re unsure about how these substances differ, let’s explore their key similarities and distinctions.
Morphine vs Heroin: What’s the Difference?
Morphine and heroin are both derived from the opium poppy plant, which classifies them as opioids. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain to produce effects such as pain relief, deep relaxation, and intense euphoria. The main difference between the two lies in their composition: morphine is a naturally occurring opiate, while heroin is a semi-synthetic opioid chemically modified from morphine to enhance its potency and rapid onset.
Opiates vs Opioids
The terms “opiate” and “opioid” are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. “Opiates” refer to naturally derived substances like opium and morphine. “Opioids,” on the other hand, include both semi-synthetic and fully synthetic drugs, such as heroin, oxycodone, and fentanyl.
Are Opiates Addictive?
Absolutely. Both opiates and opioids are highly addictive substances. Despite their legitimate use in treating acute and chronic pain, misuse is common and can quickly lead to dependence. Many opioids are developed in labs for medical use, but heroin is illegal and has no accepted medical purpose—it exists purely as a recreational drug with a high potential for abuse.
Heroin Abuse Statistics
Heroin is a Schedule I Controlled Substance because it serves no medical purpose and is only abused for a high. Regardless, many people still access the drug through the black market and abuse it. In just a short amount of time, it can lead to addiction and overdose. An estimated 9,000 adults in the U.S. died from heroin overdose in 2021.
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Opiate Addiction Treatment Options
Fortunately, developing an addiction to any opiate or opioid is not a life sentence because professional treatment exists. At our medical drug addiction rehab center, we offer the following levels of care that teach healing and sobriety.
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opiates
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an ongoing program to help individuals get sober and stay sober. During medical detoxification, you will wean off opioids. Because withdrawal is difficult, we can administer comfort medications for opioid use disorder (OUD). Similarly, in the after stages, we can continue you on medication to alleviate symptoms and reduce the desire to use opioids. We utilize the FDA-approved OUD medications methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
Inpatient Treatment for Opiates
Residential inpatient treatment is an early and transformational level of care where you will live in-center for 24/7 support.
Outpatient Treatment for Opiates
Outpatient treatment is a later level of care for those who are ready to return home but continue day sessions with treatment. Similarly, we offer flexible outpatient tracks for those who need intensive care but cannot live in the center.
When Does Someone Need Professional Opiate Treatment?
When someone cannot stop taking opioids, they have reached the point of dependency and require outside assistance. If you or someone you know follows unhealthy practices surrounding opioid use, you could be on the path to becoming dependent. Because opioids impact brain functioning, an inability to quit is not a matter of willpower but the result of a brain disorder. It’s important to treat opioid addiction like the serious medical condition it is. While it’s not always possible or easy to stop on your own, it’s undoubtedly achievable with heroin detox and rehabilitation.
Find Opiate Addiction Treatment Near Me
We invite you to seek support from us at our accredited drug rehab centers. To offer accessible treatment, we have locations spanning the United States. Please contact us today to explore your options for healing from opioid abuse.
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