Common Opioids

Common Opioids

The locations of highly concentrated regions of opiate receptors in the body correspond well with the known effects of the drugs. Table 1 highlights the body regions with a high density of opiate receptors and the effects of activating these receptors. Opioids exert their most profound effects in specific regions of the body. Table 2 outlines the major effects of commonly used opioids.
Table 1
Location of Receptors
1. Substantia gelatinosa and
medial thalamus in brain
2. Brain Stem

3. Limbic system in
brain
4. Large Intestines Effects of Receptor Activation
Pain relief for dull, prolonged pain
(analgesia)
Cough suppression, respiratory
depression, pupil constriction
Euphoria

Constipation



Table 2

Opioid
1. Morphine


2. Codeine

3. Heroin


4. Hydromorphone

5. Oxydone

6. Fentanyl


7. Methadone


8. Naloxone
(not an opioid)
Description
Medically used for pain relief. Respiratory system
depressant. Naturally exists in opium. Activates mu
opiate receptors.
Medically used for pain relief and cough suppression.
Naturally exists in opium.
Semisynthetic drug illegally used (in the USA) for its
euphoric effect. No accepted medical uses.
Depresses respiratory system.
Semisynthetic. Used to suppress cough and reduce
diarrhea.
Semisynthetic. Medically used for pain relief, cough
suppression, and to treat diarrhea.
Synthetic. Very potent analgesic properties. Full
agonist at mu receptors. Used as an anesthetic during
surgery.
Synthetic. Weak, long lasting drug. Used to reduce
withdrawal symptoms of heroin addicts who are trying
to quit.
Semisynthetic. Strong antagonist at opiate receptors.
Used to reduce the effects of opioids and treat opioid
overdoses.