Ongoing Research at University of Michigan Shows No Easy Fix for Opioid Crisis
While most people acknowledge the existence of an opioid crisis in the United States, few seem to be aware of just how extensive this crisis actually is. The current opioid-related death rate means that on average, five people die of opioid abuse each and every hour in our country. That really is staggering, no matter how it is looked at.
The state of Michigan has been significantly hit by the opioid crisis and researchers at the University of Michigan are looking at ways in which this terrible death rate possibly can possibly be. Their conclusion, sadly, is that there really is no easy fix.
The Current Opioid Crisis Has Hit the State of Michigan Especially Hard
In 2016 the state of Michigan suffered the 10th highest rate of opioid-related deaths across all US states. In total, 1,762 people lost their lives because of opioid abuse. That’s a three hundred percent increase since 2007. When released, figures for 2017 and 2018 are likely to be even higher.
Michigan has already placed into law a requirement that doctors are not allowed to prescribe more than a seven-day supply of opioid-related pain medication to their patients. Research at the University of Michigan has shown that this should have a significant impact on the number of people who become dependent on opiates. Now further studies are being done that will hopefully suggest additional ways in which that figure can be reduced even further.
Opioids are originally prescribed as a way for patients to cope with prolonged and debilitating pain. They block pain signals and trigger the release of endorphins, which are the body’s own ‘feel good’ chemicals.
Prolonged Use Causes the Body to Become Dependent On Artificial Opiates
After a period of time opioids alter the body’s chemistry so that the body stops producing natural endorphins. Hence a patient becomes dependent on their pain relief in order to simply feel ‘normal’.
Studies at Michigan University hope to provide alternatives to opioids for the provision of pain relief, to better educate medical professionals, pharmacists and family members on the potential dangers of opioids, and to provide strategies for the reduction in opioid-related overdoses. The university is also looking at ways in which programs can be developed for opioid-addicts in jail, as many opioid users end up behind bars due to their frustration in being unable to obtain sufficient opioids legally.
While there is no magic cure for the crisis, the University considers that a multi-pronged approach is the best way of reducing the current number of opioid-related deaths.
Contact Advanced Rapid Detox for Help With Opioid Dependency
If you’re looking for relief from your own battle with opioids, feel free to reach out to our team at Advanced Rapid Detox today. We have a unique and highly effective method to free you from the grips of opioid addiction. Give us a call 24/7 at (800) 603-1813 or reach out via our online contact form.