The physical and psychosocial consequences of opioid addiction: an overview of changes in opioid treatment

Abstract

This paper examines a selection of the current literature to gain information concerning opioids, addiction profiles, public opinion, legal issues and withdrawal protocols. Hundreds of Australians have died at a young age due to the complications of their own opioid misuse. This paper outlines what has been achieved in recent times in the management of people withdrawing from opioid misuse, as well as reviewing the new evidence that offers hope for faster opioid withdrawal and rehabilitation.