Narcotics Facts

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Narcotics are a class of drugs that are widely prescribed to soothe pain and ease discomfort, especially for moderate to severe pain associated with previous illnesses, injuries, diseases or other condition. In moderate doses, narcotics can dull the senses and make pain more tolerable, but prolonged use of these drugs can lead to a tolerance, physical dependence, and subsequent addiction. Here are some common facts about narcotics surrounding the method of use and the dangers associated with prolonged use.

If you or someone you love is addicted to narcotics, call  800-934-1582(Sponsored) for help finding treatment. 

Fact: Narcotic is derived from the Greek word “narkotikos,”which means numbing.

Fact: Most narcotics are classified into one of three groups

• Natural narcotics
• Synthetic narcotics
• Semi-synthetic narcotics

Fact: Narcotics can be taken in many different ways.

Many people from all over the world struggle with narcotics abuse.

• Snorting
• Injecting
• Oral consumption
• Smoking
• Suppository

Fact: Narcotics are depressants.

• They work on the central nervous system to dull the senses
• They can cause sedation, slurred speech, and depressed respiration

Fact: Narcotics are really just opiates.

• Natural narcotics are typically derived from the opiate poppy, whereas opioids are synthesized in a lab setting to act like an opiate.

Fact: Narcotics are addictive.

• Even when they are taken as prescribed, narcotics have a wide potential for causing physical dependence and addiction
• The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics reported in 2025 that nearly 50% of all Americans age 12+ will try an illicit substance once in their lifetimes
• Tolerance develops quickly and sustained use leads to dependence

What to Do If You Have an Addiction to Narcotics

Narcotics are addictive substances that can be very harmful. Addiction has health-related, financial, relationship, career-related and many other consequences. Help can and should be found.

Fact: Narcotics account for nearly one quarter of all crimes.

• Studies estimate that over 25% of all people arrested are for drug related offenses, many of them related to narcotics

Fact: Narcotics cause withdrawal symptoms that are very difficult to cope with.

• When an individual is addicted to narcotics such as heroin or morphine, the withdrawal symptoms may be mild to very severe when they try to quit
• Narcotics can cause respiratory distress, high blood pressure, muscle pain, nausea and vomiting as a result of withdrawal

Fact: Nearly 40% of all illegal drug users have addictions.

• The majority of people who are addicted don’t even realize that they have a problem
• Close to 40% of all users obtain illegal opioids from friends or family members.

For more information about narcotics or to find a treatment program, call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) .

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