Childhood trauma can make people like morphine more

People who have experienced childhood trauma get a more pleasurable “high” from morphine, Addiction Biology suggests.

University of Exeter scientists compared the effects of morphine on 52 healthy people – 27 with a history of childhood abuse and neglect, and 25 who reported no such experiences in childhood.

Those with childhood trauma liked morphine (an opioid drug) more, felt more euphoric and had a stronger desire for another dose.

Those with no childhood trauma were more likely to dislike the effects and feel dizzy or nauseous.

Release date: 22 Jun 2021
Source: University of Exeter