Listed in 
July 4th, 2011
Opiates such as morphine and heroin are commonly prescribed pain relievers. Opiates act like natural chemicals that are released in the brain called opiate receptors. These natural receptors bind to receptor sites in the brain to produce a variety of effects on the body. Opiates replace these naturally occurring receptors and also have several effects to your body from opiates abuse.
Opiates Aid In Relieving Pain
Opiate drugs have pain relieving, pleasure, and tranquilizing properties. However, due to their nature, opiates can be highly addictive once used for prolonged periods of time and with heavy use. The pain relief caused in the body by opiate drugs is due to its interference with spinal cord function. Opiates interfere with the transmission of pain that the spinal cord normally controls.
Some Of The Effects To Your Body From Opiates
Opiates, after ingested into the body, activate a chemical known as endorphins, a similar chemical released during intense exercising and other pleasurable moments. When using illicit drugs, such as heroin, pleasure effects are induced within the body. The drug attaches to opiate receptors in the brain and is involved in reward and arousal. Opiates also have sedating effects. For some, while using opiates, the mood of the user is calmed by activation of the central nervous system. Additional effects to the body caused by opiate drugs include drowsiness and disorientation. Other possible effects to your body from opiates include drowsiness, dilated pupils, shallow breathing, constipation, and euphoria.
Opiates Are Very Addictive and Can Be Dangerous
Opiate use for a prolonged period of time can lead to addiction and dependency in which the body no longer signals for chemicals like endorphins and others to be released. The body then depends on the drug to be present to create these reactions. This can lead to an increased tolerance and requirement of opiates to feel normal.