Explore the science of why opioids are addictive and what can be done to reverse the growing rates of addiction and overdose. If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid use in the United States, the Department of Health and Human Services operates a helpline (800-662-4357) and has a database of treatment facilities: https://www.hhs.gov/opioids/

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In the 1980s and 90s, pharmaceutical companies began to market opioid painkillers aggressively, while actively downplaying their addictive potential. The number of prescriptions skyrocketed, and so did cases of addiction, beginning a crisis that continues today. What makes opioids so addictive? Mike Davis explains what we can do to reverse the skyrocketing rates of addiction and overdose.

Lesson by Mike Davis, directed by Good Bad Habits.

Animator's website: https://www.goodbadhabits.ca/
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View full lesson: https://ed.ted.com/lessons/what-causes-opioid-addiction-and-why-is-it-so-tough-to-combat-mike-davis

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