Opioids (pain management)

Opioids are powerful medicines used to relieve severe pain by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing the perception of pain and producing feelings of euphoria. They include drugs like morphine, oxycodone, and fentanyl. While effective for managing intense pain, opioids can also cause side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, and respiratory depression. Because of their potential for dependence and addiction, they are prescribed and used carefully under medical supervision, usually for short-term relief or in cases of chronic pain when other treatments are insufficient.