Explain the mechanism and physical effects of opioids on the human body.
Explanation should include the following:
- Mechanism of action and metabolism of opioids
- Development of tolerance, dependence, and addiction
- Health consequences of drug misuse
- HIV, hepatitis, and other infectious diseases
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular effects
- Respiratory effects
- Gastrointestinal effects
- Musculoskeletal effects
- Kidney damage
- Liver damage
- Neurological effects
- Hormonal effects
- Prenatal effects
- Other health effects
- Mental health effects
- Death
- Withdrawal
- Causes
- Timeframe (i.e., peaks of withdrawal symptoms)
- Physical signs (e.g., nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes)
Process/Skill Questions:
- What are the short- and long-term effects of withdrawal dependence symptoms?
- How long can the human body function while exhibiting the symptoms of withdrawal?
- What are other medical conditions that may arise because of the symptoms of physical dependence?