I was on opioids for about 9 months prior to back surgery, it was the only drug that gave me any relief. I was gradually weaned off them after surgery, by reducing the dosage every week. Took me about 3 months to get off them, with many sleepless nights, not due to pain but due to withdrawal. All of which my doctor made me aware of before he put me on them. Bottom line, used in the right circumstances they are a god send, but I can see how people can get hooked.