Opioid use disorder is an increasingly common public health issue in the United States. It is a chronic medical condition caused by repeated misuse of prescription drugs, such as oxycodone or hydrocodone, and illegal opioids like heroin. People with opioid use disorder experience physical and psychological effects as a result of their addiction to these drugs. These effects can include fatigue, confusion, depression, extreme cravings for the drug, and an inability to control or stop using opioids even with major life consequences.
Opioid use disorder is a serious public health issue, but it is also treatable. Treatment options include medications such as buprenorphine and methadone that help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Behavioral therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing, can help patients develop coping skills to deal with their addiction.
In Washington State, opioid use disorder is a major area of concern. According to the Washington State Department of Health, there were 854 opioid overdose deaths in 2018 alone
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