Opioids are a class of drugs that mimic the effects of natural compounds found in the opium poppy plant. When taken, opioids interact with the brain, creating a sense of euphoria and relaxation before causing drowsiness. While prescription opioids are often used to manage moderate-to-severe pain, they can lead to serious side effects when misused. I

llegal opioids, like heroin, and prescription opioids can both lead to addiction, also known as opioid use disorder (OUD). At this stage, professional treatment is necessary to help individuals regain control of their lives.

Common Prescription Opioids

• Buprenorphine
• Codeine
• Dilaudid (hydromorphone)
• Fentanyl
• Methadone
• Morphine
• OxyContin (oxycodone)
• Tramadol
• Vicodin (hydrocodone)

What is Heroin?

Heroin is a synthetic opioid derived from morphine, a natural substance in opium poppy seeds. It is commonly found in powder form (white or brown) or as a sticky substance called “black tar heroin.” People who use heroin may smoke, snort, or inject it. Heroin quickly enters the brain, binding to opioid receptors that regulate pain, pleasure, heart rate, and breathing, making it extremely dangerous and addictive.

The Relationship Between Heroin, Fentanyl, and Prescription Opioids

Heroin is an illegal opioid, while fentanyl is a prescription medication used to treat severe pain, especially in cancer patients. However, fentanyl is much stronger than morphine—50 to 100 times more potent—and is often misused. Many overdoses in the U.S. are linked to illegally produced fentanyl, which is sometimes mixed with heroin or cocaine without the user’s knowledge, increasing the risk of fatal overdose.

People who develop an addiction to prescription opioids may turn to heroin when they can no longer obtain prescription drugs, as heroin is often cheaper and easier to access. The combination of heroin and fentanyl, especially when used unknowingly, significantly increases the risk of overdose.

Understanding Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

Opioids, whether legal or illegal, can create feelings of intense euphoria. Not everyone experiences this, but those who do may seek to recreate the feeling, leading to repeated use. Even prescription opioids are highly addictive, and long-term use or high doses increase the risk of OUD and overdose.

Key facts about opioid addiction:

• 75% of people in the U.S. who became addicted to heroin or street drugs in the 2000s reported that their addiction started with prescription opioids.
• People misusing opioids may swallow, crush, snort, or inject them, which increases the risk of infections like hepatitis or HIV.
• OUD can lead to financial difficulties, theft, job loss, and strained relationships as addiction progresses.

Signs of Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction is characterized by physical and psychological dependence. Common signs include:

• Using more opioids than intended or for longer than planned
• Craving opioids
• Unsuccessful attempts to quit or reduce use
• Needing higher doses to achieve the same effect
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using
• Seeking out multiple sources for opioids (e.g., doctor shopping)
• Crushing, snorting, or injecting opioids
• Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Giving up previously enjoyed activities
• Showing signs of intoxication, such as pinpoint pupils or nodding off

Opioid addiction goes beyond physical dependence—it involves psychological cravings and compulsive behavior that dominate a person’s life. Without professional treatment, addiction can lead to dangerous consequences, including overdose and death.

Risk Factors for Opioid Addiction

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing opioid addiction, such as:

• A family history of substance abuse
• A history of pre-adolescent sexual abuse
• Personal history of substance abuse, including alcohol
• Mental health disorders

Opioid Treatment at Las Cruces Recovery Center

Las Cruces Recovery Center offers comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for opioid addiction. Our programs are tailored to each client’s needs and typically last between 30 to 90 days.

Detox: The First Step

Our medical detox program helps clients safely manage withdrawal symptoms, the first step in the recovery process. Our experienced staff closely monitors each client to ensure they are as comfortable as possible throughout the detox phase.

Rehabilitation: Building Long-Term Recovery

After detox, clients enter the rehabilitation phase, which includes individual therapy, group therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and family therapy. These therapies help clients address the underlying causes of their addiction and develop healthier coping strategies.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

As part of our opioid treatment program, Las Cruces Recovery Center offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT) using methadone or suboxone to manage cravings. These medications help clients reduce their dependency without the high associated with opioids.

Residential Treatment

Our residential treatment program provides a focused, distraction-free environment where clients can dedicate themselves to recovery. With 24/7 support from our clinical and nursing staff, clients receive the care and guidance they need to rebuild their lives.

Why Choose Las Cruces Recovery Center?

One of the key benefits of choosing Las Cruces Recovery Center is that clients can step away from the daily stresses and routines that may be contributing to their addiction. Our center provides comfortable accommodations, nutritious meals, and activities to promote physical and emotional well-being.

We offer round-the-clock support, individual and group therapy, and recovery education to equip our clients with the tools they need for long-term sobriety. Relapse prevention is also a core part of our program, helping clients transition into a healthier, drug-free future.

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, Las Cruces Recovery Center is here to help. Contact us today to begin your journey to recovery.