ENDORPHINS
are natural pain killing substances
found in the human brain. The name comes from
endogenous (meaning within) and morphine
(morphine being a pain killer). Endorphins are one of the neurotransmitters
in the brain. Levels of endorphins in the brain may be changed by taking
a number of drugs including alcohol, anabolic
steroids and heroin and other opiates.
Electro-acupuncture has been used to stimulate the production of endorphins
to help reduce withdrawal symptoms in heroin
users. The theory is that by stimulating the body's natural opiates, they
take over as the heroin leaves the body making withdrawal less traumatic.
|