Many people assume that opiate medications must be addictive because they come from the same source as heroin (opium). Opiates are medically prescribed to relieve pain. The chemical effect is absorbed by the pain, and any potential euphoric feeling is mild. Medications such as opiates can be taken by mouth in the form of a liquid, tablet, or capsule, or injected into the skin, muscle, or veins, or applied directly to the skin as a patch.
People may remain on the same dose as their conditions progress; however, others may require increasing doses, which does not indicate addiction. An appropriate dose is one which stops the person’s pain and makes them comfortable. However, every person is different, and every pain is different; so a single dose is not right for everyone.