Opium

Opium is a narcotic and a derivative of poppies. It is exported frequently from Afghanistan and Burma. Opium is a Schedule II narcotic as determined by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Opium can cause euphoria, followed by a sense of well-being and a calm drowsiness or sedation. Breathing slows, potentially to the point of unconsciousness and death with large doses. Other effects can include nausea, confusion and constipation. Use of opium with other substances that depress the central nervous system, such as alcohol, antihistamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, or general anesthetics, increases the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression. Long-term use can lead to drug tolerance, meaning the user needs more of the drug to get similar euphorix effects. Opium use can also lead to physical dependence and addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can occur if long term use is reduced or stopped.

When opium is purified further, it is known as morphine, and in its purest and most concentrated state, it is known as heroin.