OPIOID DEPENDENCE AND WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME: A NARRATIVE REVIEW TO IDENTIFY RISKS RELATED TO THE MISUSE AND/OR PROLONGED USE OF THIS CLASS

Abstract

Introduction: Opioid drugs are indicated for the treatment, control and relief of pain considered acute and chronic because they have high analgesic and hypnotic power. However, the use of this type of medication, especially when improper or prolonged, can offer different types of risks to the user's health, such as addiction and dependence, factors that have been a matter of concern in Brazil and worldwide. Objective: To present theoretical evidence on dependence and withdrawal syndrome as potential risks related to the misuse and/or prolonged use of opioid drugs by chronic users of this active ingredient. Materials and Methods: a literature review of the narrative type was carried out through scientific materials published in the last 15 years related to the proposed theme. Results: from the analysis of the materials selected for the research, theoretical evidence was found that dependence and withdrawal syndrome are potential risks related to the misuse and/or prolonged use of opioid drugs by chronic users of this active ingredient. Conclusion: Among the risks offered by the misuse of opioids, theoretical evidence points to dependence and the withdrawal syndrome, among others, such as tolerance, addiction, overdose and even death. There is currently a great concern regarding the use of opioids in view of. Thus, it is worth reflecting on the need for more research on the phenomenon of pain and on the use of opioids, as well as constant reinforcement in the education of those who prescribe them, ensuring the safety of the proposed treatment.