Science Homework Help

Use at least 5 sentences to express your thoughts for potential full credit.

This is a discussion that requires some research on your part in order to be able to make an educated comment. Please use reliable websites such as HHS.gov, FDA.gov, CDC.gov, HopkinsMedicine.org, and MayoClinic.org for reliable information.

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) describes opioids as “a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others.”

HHS also explains that “the initial decision to take drugs is voluntary for most people, but can lead to brain changes that challenge an addicted person’s self-control and interfere with their ability to resist intense urges to take drugs.”

Say you suffered a serious injury and were prescribed Vicodin (a type of opioid) to relieve the pain. You understand that, if used correctly under a health care provider’s direction, the drug can be helpful. You also understand, however, that misusing prescription opioids risks dependence and addiction. Would you take the prescription? If not, please suggest an alternative.