Opioid Use Disorder
A substance use disorder involving a problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
Overview
Opioid use disorder involves a problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, including impaired control over use, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include using more opioids than intended, unsuccessful efforts to cut down, strong cravings, and continued use despite social, occupational, or health problems. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
Risk factors include genetic predisposition, chronic pain treatment history, co-occurring mental health conditions, and environmental exposure to opioids.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Behavioral therapies combined with structured treatment programs improve outcomes, particularly when paired with medication.
Medication
Medications for opioid use disorder, including buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone, are FDA-approved and considered the standard of care. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Opioid Use Disorder
Naloxone availability and a safety plan are important given overdose risk; connecting with a treatment provider is a critical first step.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
With sustained medication-assisted treatment, many people achieve significant, lasting improvement.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.