Opiate addiction is becoming a major problem in the United States. Narcanon of Southern California says that opiate, or narcotic, abuse is becoming more problematic as children reach into their parents' medicine cabinet. The National Institute on Drug Abuse says that problems further arise from the ease of obtaining prescriptions from outside sources and through the easy sale of pharmaceuticals by foreign sources over the Internet.
Physiological Changes
Physiological changes that may be noted include weight loss or gain, facial puffiness, general appearance changes, drunken behavior, extreme excitability and hyperactivity. Addicts may also seem distant, sometimes holding a blank, expressionless stare. Narcanon of Southern California notes that hands may shake or become cold and clammy, and eyes can appear dilated and red.
Psychological Changes
Psychological changes with opiate addiction can be identified through disturbed sleep patterns and the appearance of general malaise and fatigue. Eating habits may also change drastically and the person may appear confused or distracted easily. Maine General Health cites an increase in risky sexual behavior as another psychological component of opiate addiction. This can lead to the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, especially if opiate drug users share needles.
Patterns and Criminality
Changes in personality patterns and increased criminality may become highly problematic for the opiate-addicted individual. According to Narcanon of Southern California, swift changes in personality, behaviors or peer group can ultimately lead to more mischievous behaviors which have criminal penalties or connotation. For instance, the addicted may resort to stealing prescription pads or pharmacy hopping, which involves going from pharmacy to pharmacy to get prescriptions filled. Other patterns such as stealing and pawning items of value to buy drugs are common. Behaviors and patterns may continue to the point that intervention by the court is the only method of changing or halting criminal behaviors.
