"The availability of both opioid prescription medications and powerful illicit drugs like heroin and fentanyl has resulted in a deadly epidemic of drug abuse. Opioids and opiates are not confined to poor neighborhoods or inner cities; addicted victims are dying in communities throughout the United States. This easy-to-read, comprehensive guide uses recent statistics and up-to-date guidelines from government health and criminal justice agencies to educate the reader about the effects of opioids on the user s body and mind, issues related to drug abuse, and treatment options and support resources for addicts and their families. The statistics are supplemented with personal stories about drug abusers from all walks of life" -- provided by publisher.

Includes bibliographical references (page 59) and index.

A different epidemic -- What are opiates -- The range of opioids and opiates -- Avenues to addiction -- Living as an addict -- Over and through addiction.