Opiates

What are Opiates?

Opiates are a class of drugs derived directly from the opium poppy plant and include substances such as morphine, codeine, and heroin. They are central nervous system depressants that act on opioid receptors to relieve pain, produce sedation, and create feelings of euphoria. Pharmaceutical opiates (like morphine and codeine) are used medically for pain management, anesthesia support, and cough suppression. These medications typically appear as tablets, capsules, oral syrups, or injectable liquids in regulated clinical settings.

Illicit opiates—particularly heroin—are commonly found as powder (white, tan, or brown), sticky tar-like substances (“black tar heroin”), or compressed forms depending on how they are manufactured. These forms are often snorted, smoked, or injected recreationally to achieve intense euphoria, but they carry significant risks due to unknown purity, adulterants, and high addiction potential. Misuse of pharmaceutical opiates, whether crushed and snorted or injected, also represents a major pathway to opiate dependence.

Effects:

• Pain relief and deep physical relaxation

• Sense of euphoria or “rush” (especially with heroin)

• Slowed breathing and heart rate

• Drowsiness and sedation

• Constricted (“pinpoint”) pupils

• Nausea and vomiting

• Itching or flushed skin

• Impaired coordination and slowed reaction time

• High risk of tolerance, dependence, and addiction

• Potential for respiratory depression leading to overdose