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NCDHHS »   About »   Department Initiatives »   Overdose Epidemic »   What Are Opioids?

What Are Opioids?

Opioids are a class of drugs used to reduce pain. Opioids include some prescription pain medications, synthetic fentanyl and heroin. All opioids have a similar effect on the brain, they reduce the intensity of pain signals reaching the brain and affect the brain areas controlling emotion and breathing. Depending on how much you take and how you take them, if your body has more opioids than it can handle, there can be serious risks and side effects.

Examples of Opioids:

•    Morphine (MS Contin®)
•    Codeine
•    Hydrocodone (Vicodin®, Norco®)
•    Hydromorphone (Dilaudid®)
•    Oxycodone (Percocet®, OxyContin®)
•    Oxymorphone (Opana®)
•    Fentanyl (Duragesic®)
•    Buprenorphine (Subutex®)
•    Methadone
•    Heroin

Prescription medications have been a major driver of the opioid epidemic, but illicit drugs (heroin and synthetic fentanyl) are also increasingly contributing to this problem. Additionally, North Carolina and many other states are identifying fentanyl and opioid analogues in other kinds of illicit drugs (including cocaine, methamphetamine and counterfeit pills). People using these substances may unknowingly be exposed to opioids and are at high risk of opioid overdose. Using harm reduction techniques for safer use and having naloxone on-hand can help prevent fatal opioid overdose.

NC Map of Unintentional Opioid Related Death Rates

Overdose Epidemic

  • Cures Act Grant
  • First Responders
  • How to Get Connected and Involved
  • NC Essential Actions to Address the Opioid Epidemic: A Local Health Department’s Guide
  • NC Opioid and Prescription Drug Abuse Advisory Committee
  • North Carolina's Opioid and Substance Use Action Plan
  • Opioid Data
  • Opioid Information For Providers
  • Opioid News
  • Syringe and Naloxone Access
  • Treatment
  • What Are Opioids?

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https://www.ncdhhs.gov/about/department-initiatives/opioid-epidemic/what-are-opioids