Final answer:
Opioids are a category of drugs that are used to decrease pain. They act by attaching to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, changing the way a person experiences pain. Examples of mild and strong agonists include codeine, hydrocodone, fentanyl, hydromorphone, meperidine, methadone, morphine, and oxycodone. These drugs are commonly used to relieve moderate to severe pain.
Step-by-step explanation:
Opioids are a category of drugs that includes heroin, morphine, codeine, and other prescription pain relievers. They have analgesic properties, meaning they decrease pain. Opioid drugs act by attaching to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which can change the way a person experiences pain. Examples of mild agonists include codeine and hydrocodone, while strong agonists include fentanyl, hydromorphone, meperidine, methadone, morphine, and oxycodone. These drugs are often used to relieve moderate to severe pain, both before and after surgical procedures.