Medical use of opioids

Opioids are medications used in medicine primarily to relieve intense or ongoing pain, such as after surgery, injury, or in cancer treatments. They work by attaching to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing the feeling of pain and creating a sense of relief. While effective for pain management, opioids can also cause side effects like drowsiness, nausea, and risk of dependency if not used carefully. Medical use involves carefully balancing pain relief with potential risks, under strict supervision to ensure safe and appropriate treatment.