What parts of the brain and nervous system do opiates affect?
Limbic system (red) – The limbic system is a part of the brain that controls emotion, motivation, and emotional association with memory. Opiates affect the limbic system leading to feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and contentment. Brainstem (blue) – The brainstem coordinates certain types of movements, as well as automatic functions, such as breathing and coughing. Opiates affect the brainstem causing slowed breathing, and suppression of coughs. Spinal cord (yellow) – The spinal cord is responsible for the communication between the body and brain. One specific function of the spinal cord is the transmission of pain signals from the body. Opiates act on the spinal cord, blocking pain messages, which can sometimes lead to serious injury.
