Narcotics

What are narcotics?
These are drugs that relieve pain and often induce sleep. Some of these drugs are the opiates, which include opium and its derivatives, morphine, codeine and heroin. Narcotics also include certain drugs that have a morphine-like action, such as methadone.

Which narcotics are abused?
Heroin accounts for most narcotic abuse in the United States. Medicinal narcotics are also abused, such as methadone, meperidine, morphine, cough syrups and painkillers which contain codeine.

What are the physical problems of narcotic use?
Physical dangers depend on the specific drug, its source, and the way it is used. Many problems are caused by uncertain dose levels, use of non-sterile needles and other items, impure drugs or mixing the narcotic with other drugs. Fatal overdose is possible.

What are the risks of injecting narcotics?
The risk caused by injecting the drug is much greater than taking the drug in other ways. An overdose can result in death minutes after the injection. Infections from unsterile solutions, syringes, and needles cause many diseases.

Who becomes dependent on heroin or other narcotics?
Any person who takes one of these drugs regularly can become dependent. Other factors may play a role, but use of the drug over time is the central reason. These drugs create a strong craving.

What are the withdrawal symptoms of narcotics?
Withdrawal from heroin is typical of narcotics. When a dependent person stops taking the drug, withdrawal begins within 4-6 hours after the last use. Full symptoms begin 12-16 hours after the last dose. They may include shaking, sweating, vomiting, runny nose and eyes, muscle aches, chills, abdominal pains, and diarrhea.

What is the treatment for narcotic dependence?
Treatment most often includes medical care during withdrawal. Other drugs may be used during medical withdrawal. Individual and group counseling are part of most treatment programs. Support from a self-help group such as Narcotics Anonymous can be an important part of most recoveries.

What is Methadone?
Methadone is a synthetic narcotic painkiller. It is one of several drugs which may be used to treat dependence on heroin. It is given daily to relieve the physical craving for heroin and prevent onset of withdrawal symptoms. Fatal overdose from methadone can occur if people do not use the drug properly.

What are the risks of narcotics during pregnancy?
Narcotics used during pregnancy can cause serious risks to the fetus. Fetal growth and brain development may be retarded. Fetal distress is more likely. Heavy use by a pregnant woman can lead to premature or stillborn babies. The infant can be born addicted and suffer severe withdrawal symptoms, including convulsions. A woman considering pregnancy, is pregnant, or breastfeeding should not use illegal narcotics, and should discuss with her physician the use of any prescription narcotics.

Legal Information
Narcotics are Controlled Substances under Michigan and federal law.  Use, possession, delivery, possession with intent to deliver, and manufacture of the drug are all illegal without appropriate license or prescription.  Penalties include imprisonment and fines.  Certain penalties are mandatory.

Penalties are increased if a person eighteen years or older distributes the drug to a person under eighteen, or distributes the drug near school property.