How do opioids primarily alleviate pain?

Opioids primarily alleviate pain by blocking pain signals in the brain and spinal cord. They bind to specific receptors in the central nervous system, which are known as opioid receptors. Once activated, these receptors inhibit the transmission of pain signals, effectively reducing the perception of pain. The binding also leads to the release of neurotransmitters that can produce a sense of euphoria, making the opioids effective for both pain relief and mood enhancement.

Other methods of pain relief, such as increasing blood flow or numbing the skin, do not represent the mechanism of action for opioids. While promoting muscle relaxation can help with certain types of pain, opioids specifically target the neurological processes involved in pain signaling rather than directly relaxing muscles or affecting circulation. Thus, the explanation of blocking pain signals accurately reflects how opioids function in pain management.