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Tolerance

Development of the need for increasing amounts of a drug to achieve the desired effects due to changes in the brain.

Withdrawal

Uncomfortable symptoms, such as flu-like symptoms, that occur when a person stops using a drug.

Synthetic opioids

Man-made opioids like fentanyl, which are potent and can be highly addictive.

Endogenous opioids

Naturally occurring pain-killing peptides in the body, including endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphins.

Dopamine

Neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, whose levels increase with drug use.

Acute withdrawal syndrome

Immediate symptoms of withdrawal, including gastrointestinal distress, insomnia, and anxiety.

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS)

Long-lasting symptoms of withdrawal, such as mood disturbances and fatigue.

Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale

(COWS) used to assess the severity of opiate withdrawal symptoms.

Detoxification

Process of becoming drug-free and addressing dependence, often involving medical treatments like methadone.

Med-assisted treatments for OUD (MATs)

using FDA-approved medications combined with counseling to treat opioid use disorder effectively.

Methadone

Synthetic agonist used as a replacement therapy for heroin addiction, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Suboxone

Partial agonist containing buprenorphine and naloxone, used to treat opioid addiction by delivering controlled doses.

Naltrexone

Antagonist medication used for alcohol and opioid use disorders to block the euphoric effects of opioids.

Supervised injection/consumption site

Facility where individuals can use drugs under supervision, reducing the risk of overdose and providing necessary supplies.