Opiates
Opiates describe a variety of chemicals that get their name by being derived from opium. Opiates bind to opiate receptors, which are special proteins that are found in the nervous system. When an opiate binds to an opiate receptor, it causes specific nerve pathways to become activated, leading to the effects of the opiate. One of the main opiate receptors is called the "mu" receptor, which is found in certain parts of the brain, including the limbic system, which controls emotions and pain/pleasure feelings). It is thought that this mu receptor is responsible for opiates' ability to decrease pain and cause euphoria.
Opiate Agonists
Opiate agonists are designed to bind to opiate receptors, although they are not actually derived from opium. These are molecules, natural or synthetic, that are similar enough to opioids that they are able to bind to the receptors. Different opioid agonists have different effects. Some agonists, which are called "full agonists" are able to bind to these receptors and completely mimic the effects of an opiate. Other agonists only slightly mimic the effects of an opiate. These partial agonists can cause a range of responses, from almost total activation of the receptor to none.
Agonist Usage
Some opiate agonists take advantage of opiates' pain-relieving properties. These medications may activate the opiate receptors involved in blocking pain signals, thus helping to manage chronic pain. Other opiate agonists are used to treat narcotic addiction. Opiates can be physically addictive because the opiate receptors in the brain become accustomed to being stimulated. When there are no opiates bound to these receptors, withdrawal symptoms occur. Partial opiate agonists can be used to bind to and occupy the opiate receptors in order to prevent the chemical signals that lead to withdrawal.
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