Contents

Introduction

Opium: History’s First Wonder Drug

The First Medications

The Relationship Between Opium and Drug Regulation

The Family of Opioids and How They Work

Natural Opioids

Semisynthetic Opioid Agonists

Synthetic Opioid Agonists

From Miracle Pain Relief to Epidemic of Abuse

The Link between Chronic Pain, Painkillers, and Drug Abuse

Understanding Drug Diversion

Use, Abuse, and Addiction

Appropriate Use

Painkiller Misuse and Abuse

Physical Dependence and Addiction

The Development of Addiction

Treatment for Painkiller Addiction

Residential and Outpatient Therapy

Twelve Step Programs

Maintenance Therapy

Prevention Practices

Notes