Abstract

Sleep deficiency and Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) are intricately linked, forming a bi-directional relationship that exacerbates the severity of both conditions. Opioids significantly disrupt sleep architecture, reducing slow-wave sleep and REM sleep while increasing sleep fragmentation. Conversely, chronic sleep deprivation enhances pain sensitivity, emotional dysregulation, and craving intensity, potentially increasing opioid misuse. This article explores the complex interplay between sleep deficiency and OUD, delving into neurobiological mechanisms, the impact on health outcomes, and therapeutic strategies. Understanding this relationship is crucial for developing integrated treatment approaches that address sleep disturbances and opioid dependency, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.