Definition of Opiate
Opiates are any narcotic substances derived from the opium poppy flower. Opiates produce a sedative effect, inhibit pain, suppress appetite and sexual desire, and are highly addictive. Use and possession of opiates may be medicinal or recreational, legal or illegal.
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Opium Poppies
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Opium poppies, or Papaver somniferum L., are Asiatic flowers that produce a sap rich with morphine and other narcotic alkaloids. Cultivation of opium poppies is restricted in the United States and illegal cultivation is a serious federal offense.
Narcotics
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Any drug used to induce sleep or sedation is a narcotic. The term "narcotic" is commonly associated with illegal drug use, but it is equally applicable to legal medicinal uses.
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Legal Opiate Use
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Legal opiates are used medicinally to relieve pain and induce altered states when needed. Prescription drugs like morphine and codeine are legal when prescribed by a doctor in accordance with U.S. Department of Justice guidelines.
Illegal Opiates
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All opiate manufacturing, possession and use is illegal in the United States unless conducted with proper licensing and practiced according to guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Justice. Illegal opiates include opium, heroin, and prescription medications when use is not controlled.
Opiate Addiction
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All opiates are highly addictive regardless of origin or use. Addiction is characterized by cravings and intense withdrawal symptoms when opiate use is stopped or reduced. Opiate withdrawal can require medical supervision and may cause vomiting, cramping and hallucinations.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An illustrated flora of the northern United States, Canada and the British Possessions. Vol. 2: 137.
