natural substances produced by the body that bind to opioid receptors.

Moreover, opioids also impact the release of endogenous opioids—natural substances produced by the body that bind to opioid receptors. This interaction creates a feedback loop that further amplifies the analgesic effects while simultaneously altering mood and emotional states. The diverse actions of opioids on these various receptor types underscore their potency as analgesics but also highlight their potential for adverse effects, including dependency and overdose.