Opiate:Amedicationor an illegal drug that is derived from theopiumpoppy. Opiates arenarcoticsedatives that depress activity of thecentral nervous system, reduce pain, and induce sleep.Codeine,morphine, andheroinare examples of opiates.Incontrast, the termopioidis a broader term that originally was used to refer to anysubstance, natural (such as opiates) or synthetic, that bind to the opioid receptors in thebrainand causesedativeandpainrelief effects. Some examples of synthetic opioids include theprescriptionpainkillershydrocodone(Vicodin) andoxycodone(OxyContin), as well as fentanyl andmethadone. In recent years, the term opioid has been used more broadly and is often used to refer to the entire class of drugs that consists of both opium derivatives (opiates) and synthetic opioids.
Side effectsof all opioids may include oversedation, nausea, and constipation. Long-term use can produce addiction, and overuse can cause overdose and potentiallydeath.
