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Nearly 9 million folks a year in America contend with opioid abuse, and nearly 80,000 people die from opioid overdose annually. Fentanyl, morphine, heroin, codeine, tramadol, oxycodone, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, and oxymorphone are all opioids.

Fortunately, we're finding out more and more about how to help folks stop abusing these drugs. A new study of more than 32,000 U.S. veterans published in the journal Addiction found that staying on medications for opioid use disorder, such as buprenorphine, methadone, or extended-release naltrexone for two to four years (far longer than most folks take them) increases the chance for survival significantly. Also, GLP-1 drugs, which decrease cravings for food and alcohol, seem to impact opioid and other drug cravings as well.

And what can help someone get through the first days of withdrawal? Yoga. Really. A randomized study in JAMA Psychiatry had 59 addicted guys do 10 supervised 45-minute sessions over 14 days (along with standard buprenorphine treatment). They achieved withdrawal stabilization 4.4 times faster than control participants and showed significant improvements in heart rate variability, anxiety, sleep, and pain measures. Yoga helps because its guided relaxation practices, postures and breathing techniques positively impact the body's autonomic nervous system (which helps control functions like heartbeat and breathing), help ease anxiety and pain, and promote better sleep.

If someone you know (or yourself) is working to overcome opioid abuse, explore findtreatment.gov. And for a full menu of supportive practices, check out my 7-step plan online at psychologytoday.com. Search for "7 Secrets to Hitting Your Reset Button."

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.