Document Type

Plan B - Open Access

Award Date

2020

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology and Microbiology

First Advisor

Greg Heiberger

Abstract

One of the more pressing issues in modern day health care is the nationwide heath care crisis known as the opioid epidemic. The beginning of this literature review will focus on the history of opioid use and early prescription rates, as well as the summary and definitions of the drugs involved in the current opioid epidemic. The review then shifts to the pathophysiology of addiction involving the activation of opioid receptors and opioid use disorder. The main focus of this literature review is the societal impacts of the opioid epidemic, making special reference to the economic burden and effects on Rural America. The conclusion of this review offers some insight into possible solutions of combating the current opioid epidemic.

Number of Pages

26

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

Copyright © 2020 Holly J. Goehring

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