US Medical Term · medications
Opioid
Opioide
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Opioid |
| Spanish (Español) | Opioide |
| Chinese (中文) | 類鴉片藥物 |
| Korean (한국어) | 오피오이드 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Thuốc opioid |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Opioid |
| Portuguese (Português) | Opioide |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | ยากลุ่มโอปิออยด์ |
| Japanese (日本語) | オピオイド |
What it means
Opioids are powerful prescription pain medications that work by binding to receptors in the brain and spinal cord to block pain signals. Common opioids include oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and codeine. They are typically prescribed for severe acute pain, cancer pain, or pain that has not responded to other treatments. Opioids carry a significant risk of dependence, addiction, and overdose. Never take more than prescribed or share them with others. Avoid alcohol and sedatives while taking opioids. Do not stop suddenly without medical guidance. If you or someone else suspects an overdose, use naloxone (Narcan) and call 911 immediately.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Is this medication an opioid, and what are the risks I should know about?
¿Este medicamento es un opioide y cuáles son los riesgos que debo conocer?
Can I drive or operate machinery while taking this opioid pain medication?
¿Puedo conducir u operar maquinaria mientras tomo este medicamento opioide?
What should I do if I think someone is having an opioid overdose?
¿Qué debo hacer si creo que alguien está sufriendo una sobredosis de opioides?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026