Narcotics Essay

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Narcotics For hundreds of years millions of people have used and abused narcotics. Two of the most widely known and abused sources of narcotics are cocaine and opium, the latter being used since the early eras of Chinese history for centuries before it’s addictive and dangerous nature was fully realized. Ancient Egyptians even had writings about themselves and Romans using opium poppy for pain relief during child birth, chewing the poppy leaves would produce a decent analgesic effect. Cocaine itself was used in its base form for just as long and with its stimulating effect on the respiratory system, allowed laborers the stamina to perform their duties in thin air and or high altitude environments. So what is it about these two substances with their seemingly amazing medicinal uses can create such a widespread problem and need for control? Narcotics are a class of drug that sooth pain, ease discomfort. They are widely prescribed for treatment of moderate to severe pain associated with previous illness or injury, even diseases or other conditions. In moderation, they can relieve pain and dull the senses making pain more tolerable. However with these comes a price, much like any other addiction out there, the effects of these prescription drugs can cause a nearly inescapable desire or craving for them or their streetwise equivalents. This potentially dangerous side of narcotics has been over-looked for decades, even centuries, through the promotions of cocaine and opium laced cure-alls by some of the most famous people of the times. These cure-alls came in many forms and were all widely accepted in the beginning, only to later find that many began to crave them more and more resulting in a recreational use of the drug eventually re... ... middle of paper ... ... mitigate the illegal distribution of narcotics, they are still the most abused drugs on the market and can be obtained just about anywhere. The advancements in the use and production of narcotics will continue to undoubtedly benefit many and should remain closely controlled to prevent the harmful side effects that can come with them. As long as narcotics are available in hospitals, pharmacies and on the streets, there will be a continued need for controlled observation, legal consequences associated with improper possession and qualified treatment for narcotics addiction. You as the patient or even the care giver must ensure that these are taken as they are intended and only received through legally approved means. Take the lessons from the past and share them with others to hopefully stem the tide of pain and suffering these drugs can cause when used or abused.

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