Taking strong opioid painkillers, in large doses, for an extended period of time, can cause physical dependence in humans. This means when the medication is discontinued abruptly, withdrawal symptoms occur.
This is normal physiology and does not require addiction treatment. However, if an uncontrollable compulsion develops and is accompanied by an increased quantity of drug to achieve the same effect, and opioid use continues despite negative consequences, such as loss of a job, then these conditions may be considered addiction and may require treatment.
More about a new treatment option for opioid dependence