Morphiomania is a medical term that refers to addiction to morphine or other opioid narcotics. The word is pronounced /mɔːfiəʊˈmeɪniə/ and is spelled according to its Greek roots: "morphine" and "mania". The "morph-" element in the spelling refers to morphine, while "-mania" denotes an excessive preoccupation or obsession. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word helps to accurately represent its pronunciation, which enhances effective communication among healthcare professionals and patients. Morphine addiction is a serious condition that requires prompt medical intervention.
"Morphiomania" is a noun that refers to an obsessive or excessive preoccupation with or craving for morphine. It is derived from the combination of the terms "morphio," which relates to morphine, and "mania," which suggests an intense obsession or compulsion.
As an addictive drug, morphine is known for its potent pain-relieving properties and its ability to induce feelings of euphoria. Morphiomania, therefore, describes an uncontrollable, overwhelming, and often destructive desire to obtain and consume morphine. Individuals experiencing morphiomania often exhibit symptoms of drug withdrawal, such as restlessness, irritability, anxiety, muscle aches, and insomnia, when they are unable to access the drug.
This term is commonly used in the field of substance abuse and addiction, highlighting the severe dependency and psychological attachment associated with morphine addiction. It typifies a compulsive and damaging behavior pattern that directly impacts an individual's physical health, mental well-being, social relationships, and overall functioning in society.
Morphiomania is recognized as a substance use disorder, with its own set of diagnostic criteria outlined in various classification systems for mental health disorders. It is often treated through a combination of behavioral therapy, counseling, support groups, and sometimes pharmacological intervention to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Overall, morphiomania implies an all-consuming obsession with morphine, highlighting the harmful effects it has on an individual's life and the urgent need for intervention and treatment for those affected.
Morphinomania.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "morphiomania" is derived from a combination of two elements: "morphio-" and "-mania".
- "Morphio-" is derived from the Greek word "morphē", which means "shape" or "form". It can also refer to the Greek god of dreams, Morpheus. In English, "morphio-" is used as a prefix indicating change or transformation.
- "-Mania" comes from the Greek word "manía", which means "madness" or "frenzy". It is commonly used as a suffix to denote an extreme or excessive craving or enthusiasm for something.
When these two elements are combined, "morphiomania" refers to a condition in which a person has an excessive or uncontrollable craving for morphine or opioid drugs.