Opiates derived from the poppy plant Used in the 19th century as painkillers

for cough, diarrhea, and physical ailments

Grown in countries like Afghanistan and Turkey

Opiates can be found in liquid, powder, or pill form

Common opiates include: 1. Morphine2. Heroin3. Hydrocodone (Lortabs)4. Oxycodone (Oxycotin)5. Percocet6. Vicodin7. Codine

Opiates either come straight from the poppy flower, are derived from opium, or are manufactured synthetically.

Opiates were originally marketed as OTC pain-relievers.

For Example: Bayer- heroin, opium Codeine- OTC cough medicine

Most opiates are now Schedule I or II controlled substances in the U.S.

Opiates bind to the opiate receptors in the brain, the same receptors that endorphins bind to

Once opiates bind to their corresponding receptors, they trigger two sensations: pleasure and pain relief.

Opiates cause greater amounts of dopamine to be released, which activates the brain’s pleasure circuit and creates a feeling of reward.

If opiates are taken in excess, addiction may occur.

Opiates cause an intense rush, or euphoria, followed by a few hours of relaxation. This sensation appeals to many and causes addiction.

Use of Opiates make body dependent on them to function normally

When a person quits using opiates after a long period of time, they often experience physical pain from withdrawal.

Don’t Do Drugs

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Wikipedia.org Opiates.org