Narcotics: A narcotic is a psychoactive compound

A narcotic is a psychoactive compound that numbs or paralyzes, or a drug that is prohibited or regulated by law. Learn about the origin, evolution, and international control of narcotics , as well as the different types and effects of narcotic drugs. A common question about narcotic drugs is simply, " what are narcotics ?" Narcotics are drugs that have sedative effects, such as opiates and opioids. Narcotics are drugs that dull the sense of pain and cause drowsiness or sleep. They are the most effective tool a physician has to relieve severe pain. Narcotics are also given pre-operatively to relieve anxiety and induce anesthesia. Other common uses are to suppress cough and to control very severe diarrhea. In large doses, they can suppress the ability to breathe and cause coma and death. Narcotics are also taken illegally for recreational use. Opioids (sometimes called narcotics ) are a class of drugs to manage moderate to severe pain. They have a high addiction potential.