Psychological effects opiates

Medical Use of Opiate Drugs Acute Psychological and Physiological Effects of Opiates Chronic Effects of Opiates Tolerance... 

In Table 1.3 I have included the areas of physical and psychological health, which often do not feature in reviews. Methadone has significant adverse effects, as discussed below, and by no means do all patients report subjective improvements in health on the drug, as opposed to when taking street heroin or other opiates. However, if methadone treatment is adhered to, there is normalization of various circadian rhythms and endocrine effects... 

The patterns of anabolic-androgenic steroid use by sportspeople and body-builders, and their physical and psychological side-effects and dependence potential, have been very well reviewed by Brower (2002). Much of the use is by injection, and so many of this population attend needle exchanges, with the advice on reducing infection risks relevant. To increase energy, burn fat and to go through the pain barrier some will use amphetamines and opiates, either street preparations or illicit pharmaceutical supplies. In the UK the opioid nalbuphine (Nubain) has been abused in this way and, in cases where dependence becomes established, detoxification treatments can be necessary. 

Methadone and all other opiates produce multiple effects on a user s psychological and mental status. These effects are generally dose-related, with more powerful effects seen at higher doses. 

The mixed agonist-antagonist opiates produce negligible euphoric effects. However, other receptor-mediated effects are similar to those of morphine. Therefore, the physical manifestations of opiate withdrawal are minimized, and psychologic dependence is not exacerbated. 

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