NarcoticsFor hundreds of years, millions of people have used and abused narcotics. Two of the most well-known and widely abused sources of narcotics are cocaine and opium, the latter of which was used from early Chinese history for centuries before its addictive and dangerous nature was fully realized. The ancient Egyptians even had writings of themselves and the Romans using the opium poppy to relieve pain during childbirth, chewing the poppy leaves would produce a decent analgesic effect. Cocaine itself has been used in its base form for just as long and, through its stimulating effect on the respiratory system, has given workers the stamina to carry out their tasks in the air and/or or in high altitude environments. So why can these two substances, with their seemingly amazing medicinal uses, create such a widespread problem and need for control? Narcotics are a class of medications that soothe pain and reduce discomfort. They are widely prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe pain associated with previous illness or injury, or even illness or other conditions. In moderation, they can relieve pain and dull the senses, making the pain more tolerable. However, this comes at a price, as with any other addiction, the effects of these prescription drugs can cause an almost inevitable desire or urge to consume them or their street equivalents. This potentially dangerous aspect of narcotics was neglected for decades, even centuries, through the promotion of miracle cures cocaine and opium by some of the most famous people of the time. These miracle cures came in many forms and were all widely accepted at first, only to find that many began to crave them more and more, which resulted in recreational use of the drug, which eventually by disappearing from the paper. ..... mitigate the illegal distribution of narcotics, they remain the most abused drugs on the market and can be obtained just about anywhere. Advances in the use and production of narcotics will undoubtedly continue to benefit many and should remain closely controlled. to prevent the harmful side effects that may accompany them. As long as narcotics are available in hospitals, pharmacies, and on the streets, there will always be a need for controlled supervision, legal consequences for improper possession, and qualified treatment for narcotics dependence. As a patient or even caregiver, you must ensure that this information is taken as intended and received only through legally approved means. Learn from the past and share them with others to hopefully stem the tide of pain and suffering these medications can cause when used or abused..