How opioid painkillers work, why they are addictive and how to avoid dependency

Prescription opioids are intended for short-term acute pain relief, not long-term chronic primary pain, according to National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance.

Opioid painkillers can lead to physical dependence, as the opioid receptors become less sensitive over time, requiring larger doses and resulting in withdrawal symptoms if doses are reduced or stopped.

Read at www.theguardian.com