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.