True or False: Opioids encompass both natural and synthetic substances that bind to the brain's opioid receptors.

Opioids indeed cover a broad category of substances that interact with the brain's opioid receptors. This includes both natural opioids, which are derived from the opium poppy plant, such as morphine and codeine, and synthetic opioids, which are manufactured in laboratories, such as fentanyl and oxycodone. The ability of these substances to bind to the brain’s opioid receptors is what gives them pain-relieving qualities but also contributes to their potential for misuse and addiction. Understanding the full scope of opioids is essential for recognizing their effects, risks, and medical uses. This broad classification highlights the significance of both natural and synthetic opioids in pharmacology and healthcare.