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Glossary of Terms

A reference of commonly used terms related to opioids, substance use, and treatment.

Opioid analgesics

Commonly referred to as prescription opioids, medications that have been used to treat moderate to severe pain in some patients.

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Related Terms

Opioid

Natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic chemicals that interact with opioid receptors on nerve cells in the body and brain and reduce the intensity of pain signals and feelings of pain. This class of drugs includes the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain medications available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and many others. Prescription opioids are generally safe when taken for a short time and as directed by a doctor, but because they produce euphoria in addition to pain relief, they can be misused and have addiction potential.

Analgesics

Pain relieving medications including over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Advil®)and prescription opioids.

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