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Definition: Opioids

By Angela Morrow, RN, About.com

Updated: December 16, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Opioids are medications used to treat pain. They require a prescription from a physician. They also may be used to treat dyspnea, also known as shortness of breath.
Pronunciation: O-pee-oyds
Also Known As: narcotics
Examples: Morphine, Methadone, Oxycodone, Codeine, Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)

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