Opioids refer to a class of substances that includes natural and synthetic opioid drugs. They can be available in prescription form such as morphine, methadone, oxycodone and codeine, as well as illegal substances such as heroin and opium. Opioid addiction refers to a situation in which one is unable to stop using opioids despite negative consequences. Currently the most commonly abused opioid is heroin. There are cases where an individual may have an addiction to prescription drugs such as morphine or hydrocodone. The term “addiction” was coined by the World Health Organization (WHO) to refer to a set of physiological and behavioral phenomena of varying intensity in which drug use has a high priority. The use of the drug is used to experience its actions and mental effects or to avoid the inconvenience of its absence. Dependence on more than one drug is also common. Since the emergence of drug addiction, numerous attempts have been made to reduce the effects that opiates have on individuals and more importantly to stop widespread addiction. Opiates are excellent at reducing pain, but it is their ability to cause euphoria in the user that makes them so attractive to most addicts. There are several ways to treat opioid addiction. Paradoxically, it appears that the best practice for drug use lies in the use of multiple drugs. However, several forms of treatment must be administered to give the addict a realistic chance of overcoming the addiction. Therefore, psychology is also widely used. Medications administered include buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. Other experimental drugs are also on the rise. Another important method in use is total abstinence. This involves a……half of the paper……and to stick to the first step which emphasizes self-admission. A statement like, "Hi, I'm Chad and I'm a drug addict." Sponsorship by another member who has more experience or has been part of the group for a longer period. The sponsor should be expected to guide the individual towards total abstinence. He will be your guide and whenever you feel like taking medicines you should contact him as quickly as possible. The 12-step program can be helpful if used well. In summary, there are several methods for treating opioid addiction. You can use two methods coming from different ends of the spectrum. Buprenorphine is an invaluable drug in the treatment of opioid addiction. However, there seems to be a glimmer of hope for those who choose total abstinence. What is not in dispute is that if you want an addict to get well, you should consider both methods.