What are the Side-effects of Opium Addiction?

By | March 17, 2011

Morphine, heroin, and codeine are three compounds of opium, considered as illegal drugs. A feel of euphoria or pleasure is given by the opiates and are being used though they are illegal. Several side-effects are associated with opium addiction. Some of them are listed here.

  • Euphoria
  • Decreased appetite
  • Reduction in breath rate
  • Nausea
  • Drowsiness, Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Low blood pressure
  • Respiratory depression
  • Increase in temperature
  • Dry mouth

In addition to these, several long-term effects are also observed with continuous usage of opiates. Veins may get collapsed in longtime opium users. Infections in heart and its valves and liver diseases are some of the dangerous effects of opium. It may also cause respiratory infections such as pneumonia because of respiratory depression. The addicted people also develop tolerance to the drug and suffer from pupillary constriction and constipation.

Serious health complications such as fatal overdose and spontaneous abortion are also seen. Infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis may be caused in users who inject opiates. It is therefore necessary to prevent your friends or children from consuming opiates.