Opioids are very effective for pain relief. However, a side effect is weight loss. So, if you want to take opioids for weight loss, you might want to reconsider.
These drugs are very addictive. Even though they can lead to weight loss, it is not worth taking opioids solely for that. There are many side effects. Here is all you need to know about opioids and weight loss.
What are Opioids, and What Does It Do?
Opioids are naturally occurring substances found in opioid poppy plants. It can be used to treat medical conditions, primarily pain relief. However, opioids can also refer to synthetic substances, such as fentanyl.
These drugs are so effective because they target the central nervous system. As a result, they can effectively change how your pain receptors receive signals. As a result, they alter how your body perceives pain.
It is very effective. Popular opioid drugs include hydrocodone, morphine, and others. However, remember that these are generic names and not the names of actual pills.
Although opioids are effective, they are classed as Schedule II narcotics. This means a person who takes them can develop dependency and become addicted.
Does Opioid Cause Weight Loss?
So, do opioids cause weight loss? Yes, it does. But it is not as straightforward as you might think. Opioids are not meant as a weight loss drug. Patients losing weight is a side effect – one of many side effects, I might add.
Countless studies show a connection between painkillers and weight loss, but you should never rely on them. This is because these drugs can become addictive.
Opioids are mainly for pain relief. You should always take opioids according to a doctor’s prescription to avoid substance abuse.
If you do want to take opioids for pain relief, reputed places, for example, Florida Suboxone clinics online, will be happy to sit down with you and help you.
It is always best to take opioids under the supervision of a licensed medical professional. That way, you will be safe and have someone guiding you.
What Are the Dangers of Opioids?
Unfortunately, even though opioids are very effective for what they are used for, they can also be very dangerous. The biggest problem is addiction. Opioids are very addictive, and patients will develop a reliance on them.
Taking these drugs gives you a sense of euphoria. And this is why people get addicted. They start to crave the feeling. The more you go down this rabbit hole, the more addicted you become.
In small doses, it might make you feel a bit drowsy. However, higher doses could become fatal. In addition, it could slow your breathing down and increase your heart rate.
When to Take Opioids
If you need any opioid medicine, your doctor will prescribe you. These are not simple over-the-counter medicines.
You should not ‘pop a pill’ any time you feel pain. So only take opioid medicine if your doctor prescribed them.
Moreover, following the exact dosage your doctor gave you is crucial. As mentioned, frequent use could lead to addiction and reliance on the drug. Here are some things you need to keep in mind:
- Never mix opioids with other drugs
- Do not mix opioids with alcoholic beverages
- Never cut off your dosage suddenly
- If you think you might be developing an opioid addiction, contact your healthcare professional immediately.
Alternative Ways to Lose Weight
Even though opioids are effective, I do not recommend them just for weight loss. It is a side effect of these drugs and not their intended use.
Instead, if you want to lose weight, it is better to try healthier and proven alternatives. Lifestyle and dietary changes will give you long-lasting results. However, if weight loss is your ultimate goal, here is what you can do.
Have a More Active Lifestyle
It does not get simpler than this. If you want to lose weight, you need to get moving. Exercise has many benefits, including weight loss. You will be less stressed and happier.
Eat Breakfast
This is counterintuitive. Skipping breakfast might cause you to snack more throughout the day. And those calories can add up. When you skip a healthy breakfast, you miss out on nutrients.
Eat a High Fiber Diet
Foods with high fiber, like oats, vegetables, fruits, brown rice, pasta, and others, keep you feeling full for longer. You will eat less, which is the best thing you can do to help yourself lose weight.
Keep Hydrated
Another straightforward thing you can do to keep your weight in check is to drink loads of water. You might think you are hungry, but you could be thirsty. Drinking water is beneficial for your health. So remember to drink enough water throughout the day.
Eat on Small Plates
This might sound like a hack, but it is a ‘hack’ that works. You can trick yourself into eating lesser portion sizes by using a smaller plate. You should also eat slowly since it takes your brain some time before realizing you are full.
Eat Plenty of Fruits and Veggies
Fruits and vegetables help to lose weight. This is because they have low calories but are high in fiber. So, you will feel full for longer and eat less. Also, it’s good for your general health.
Do Meal Plans
Instead of winging your meals, try planning them ahead of time. For example, plan what you will eat for the next week.
This way, you will ensure you stay within your recommended calorie intake. Plus, you will only be urged to impulse eat something if you already know what you will have beforehand.
Wrapping Up
Alright, there you have it. Even though opioids lead to weight loss, it is simply a side effect. These drugs are not made for losing weight. Moreover, regularly taking opioids can cause you to develop a reliance on them and become addicted. Therefore, it is always better to consult a doctor when taking opioids.
