The Link Between Opioid Use and Depression
Of course, much of the discussion surrounding pain reliever use revolves around opioid medications. Regular opioid use can lead to depression and anxiety that can diminish the happiness and contentment in your life. Research published by Saint Louis University found that new daily users of opioids were 40% more likely to experience new-onset depression.7
New onset depression refers to the first occurrence of a depressive episode in an individual who has not previously experienced clinical depression.
The study included research into the most commonly used prescription pain reliever medications on the market.
- Codeine
- Dihydrocodeine
- Tramadol
- Tapentadol
- Hydrocodone
- Oxycodone
- Pentazocine
- Levorphanol
- Oxymorphone
Other pain reliever side effects include symptoms of anxiety, which can also greatly reduce the joy people are able to experience. One study found that prescription opioid use can increase symptoms of anxiety. The analysis evaluated how different levels of opioid use affected the incidence and prevalence of anxiety. 8
Anxiety can significantly diminish the enjoyment in life by creating a persistent sense of worry and dread that overshadows everyday experiences. The constant state of alertness and fear can make it difficult to appreciate activities once found pleasurable, disrupt relationships, and erode overall well-being. Holistic treatments for anxiety include sleep management, dietary changes, peer support, acupuncture, and other effective and natural remedies.
Other Common Side Effects of Pain Reliever Medications
The negative physical effects of pain relief medications can also reduce your ability to experience pleasure and well-being. It is important to understand that this is true for both prescription and non-prescription pain relievers. Pain reliever side effects can include:
Gastrointestinal Problems
Regular opioid use can lead to GI problems that can be very uncomfortable and potentially unsafe. While the worst symptoms often end after a few days, GI problems could include constipation and uncomfortable bowel movements. In severe cases, constipation may require medical interventions. 9
Cognitive Issues
Many people who use opioid-based medications report pain reliever side effects that include a “foggy” brain. Slower reflexes can also result. People who use potent painkillers are often advised to avoid operating machinery and driving for these very reasons. 10
Unpleasant Drug Interactions
Opioids can have dangerous interactions with drugs that you are currently taking. Before taking any prescription medications, it is critical to fully disclose which medications you are on to your primary care physician or pharmacist. Even herbal supplements should be disclosed to prevent unpleasant or potentially unhealthy drug interactions. 11
Respiratory Depression
Opioids can slow breathing and lower blood oxygen levels. This symptom is one of the most dangerous side effects of opioid painkiller use. Around 80,000 people die each year due to opioid-induced respiratory depression.12
Hormonal Effects
Long-term opioid use may cause hormonal imbalances, particularly in sex hormones, leading to missed periods, reduced sex drive, and reproductive problems. Opioids can also affect the production of other hormones, which may cause fatigue, GI issues, and high blood pressure. Other potential side effects from opioid use include nausea, vomiting, itching, and low blood pressure. 13
Reducing Reliance on Pain Relief Medications
The team at Alternative to Meds Center provides a wide range of holistic treatments that can help reduce dependency on pain relief meds. One common treatment for people who are on prescription medication is medication tapering. This process is completed under the close supervision of a medical professional who gradually and slowly reduces the patient’s intake of prescription medications.
Medication Tapering
Medication tapering is more successful when combined with complementary treatments like neurotoxin removal, targeted neurotransmitter repair, counseling, and nutritional correction. The treatments are always conducted in a supportive environment that addresses the underlying physiological and medical issues, which is crucial for achieving and maintaining an unmedicated state.
Neurotoxin Removal
Reducing dependency on pain relief medications is greatly supported by neurotoxin removal. This important type of detox can help you begin to experience the full breadth of emotions that have been dulled through the use of pain relievers.
The process often begins with a lab test that helps our team better understand the body burden of toxic chemicals including drug residues and other pollutants that have accumulated over a lifetime. Exercise, proper hydration, and sauna treatments can facilitate the detox process.
Acupuncture
Ancient treatments like acupuncture can aid in the reduction of dependency on pain relievers. Acupuncture’s impact on the nervous system has been studied through brain imaging and measurements of emotional and behavioral responses before and after acupuncture treatment. 15
There are also potential benefits for the body’s connective tissues, particularly through the peripheral sensory nervous system. Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which may facilitate the stimulation of the brain’s emotional centers. 16 Acupuncture treatments can be customized to address your mental health needs.
Holistic Pain Management
Holistic pain management refers to the incorporation of complementary and natural treatments for the purpose of reducing our patients’ use of pain relief medications. Treatment options could incorporate acupuncture, exercise, massage therapy, nutrition therapy, and other options that we offer at Alternative to Meds Center. Treatments are fully customized. Our medical professionals always keep your comfort in mind when treating pain.
Residential Treatment
Pain relief medications can create dependencies that may require the use of inpatient (residential) treatments. Some patients can benefit from outpatient services that allow them to continue going to work and living at home.
Treatments can include:
- Medication Tapering
- Lab Testing
- Holistic Pain Management
- Psychotherapy
- Adjunctive Physical Therapies
- Creative Adjunctive Therapies
- Ongoing Holistic Detox
Residential treatment allows our staff to be nearby 24/7, so you always have access to important medical services.
