Opioids are powerful painkillers derived from either the opium poppy or synthetic versions of it. These highly addictive substances have spurned an epidemic in the United States. Here's the latest news on the science of opioids, who they impact and possible treatments.
Latest about opioids
FDA approves over-the-counter Narcan to combat opioid overdose crisis
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a naloxone nasal spray for over-the-counter use.
Opioids are the most common cause of fatal poisonings in kids under 5
Opioids account for a greater proportion of fatal pediatric poisonings than they did a decade ago.
Horse tranquilizer crops up in overdose deaths around US
Half of U.S. states reported detecting the tranquilizer in fatal drug overdose cases in 2019.
Horse tranquilizer emerges as new and deadly street drug in US
Called xylazine, the drug is a sedative used in veterinary medicine, and is not approved for use in humans.
'Diseases of despair' on the rise across the US
The U.S. has also been facing another deadly, but less visible, public health crisis.
Most People Don't Actually Feel Euphoric When They Take Opioids, Study Finds
Mounting research suggests that the average person doesn't actually reach a euphoric state after taking opioids.
Cancer Patients Get Rare Blood Infection After Nurse Dilutes Opioids with Tap Water
Half a dozen cancer patients in New York developed a rare infection after they received injectable opioids that a nurse had diluted with tap water, according to a new report.
CBD May Reduce Drug Cravings in People with Heroin Addiction, Small Study Finds
A small study suggests that the marijuana compound cannabidiol (CBD) may reduce cravings in those with heroin addiction.
