Narcotic

A term historically used to describe substances that induce sleep or dull the senses. In modern contexts, it often refers to opioids, which are medications or drugs derived from opium or synthetic analogs that have pain-relieving properties.

 

Opioid:

A class of drugs that includes natural opiates, semi-synthetic opioids, and synthetic opioids. Opioids are commonly used for pain management but can be associated with dependence and addiction.

 

Opium:

A substance derived from the poppy plant (Papaver somniferum) containing alkaloids such as morphine and codeine. Opium has been historically used for pain relief and relaxation.

 

Morphine:

An opioid analgesic naturally found in the opium poppy. It is a powerful pain reliever often used in medical settings, especially for severe pain, such as after surgery or injury.

 

Codeine:

A mild opioid analgesic found in opium, commonly used for pain relief and as a cough suppressant. It is less potent than morphine and is often combined with other medications.

 

Heroin:

An illicit opioid drug synthesized from morphine. Heroin is highly addictive and has no approved medical use. It is considered a Schedule I controlled substance in many countries.

 

Analgesic:

A substance that relieves pain. Narcotics, particularly opioids, are powerful analgesics commonly used in medical practice.

 

Narcotic Analgesic:

A medication that combines a narcotic (opioid) with an analgesic (pain-relieving) component, providing effective pain relief in various medical situations.

 

Naloxone:

An opioid receptor antagonist used as an emergency treatment for opioid overdose. It rapidly reverses the effects of opioids and restores normal respiration.

 

Dependency:

A state where the body has adapted to the presence of a drug, and the absence of the drug leads to withdrawal symptoms. Opioid dependency can occur with prolonged use.