The Super Strong Painkiller Hiding in Your Spit

Opiorphan, a compound found in human saliva, may offer nonaddictive pain relief similar to morphine. Discovered in 2006, it works by inhibiting enzymes that break down encephalins, prolonging their pain-relieving effects. Research on rats shows opiorphan is effective and less addictive than opioids, but potential side effects and challenges in turning it into medicine remain. Despite its presence in saliva, practical use for pain relief is limited.

Why is it important for the body to regulate the levels of encephalins?

What potential side effects might arise from the use of opiorphan?