Opium is found naturally in the unripe seed pods of the opium poppy. It may be given to relieve severe diarrhea. The active alkaloid morphine contained in the opium is a highly addictive narcotic pain killer. It works on receptors in the nervous system where it can stimulate molecular changes in cell membranes to relieve pain and slow breathing. Further derivation of opium can produce heroin. Besides the pain-killing analgesic properties of narcotics, opium and its derivatives have a number of side effects.
Depressed Respiration
Opium depresses respiration as part of its narcotic effects. Over-sensitivity to the narcotic or taking too much of it can stop the user's breathing completely and cause death according to Drugs.com. Opium doses need to be carefully controlled and monitored, especially if the drug is given to elderly or frail patients.
Asthma Attack
Opium can cause an asthma attack with those who suffer from severe bronchial asthma. RxList warns that neither opium nor morphine should be given to anyone with acute bronchial asthma, without equipment on hand for emergency resuscitation.
Fainting, Weakness
Opium can cause fainting, weakness and confusion if too much is taken. A lowered body temperature, clammy skin, extreme lethargy and weak pulse are all side effects of a high sensitivity to opium, or using too high a dose according to Drugs.com.
Toleration over Time
Using opium and its derivatives like morphine tend to desensitize the user so that more of the drug must be used to have the same effect. Dr. Joanne Lynn of George Washington University School of Medicine, states that overdoses that would stop respiration and cause death have been routinely tolerated by patients when the increase in dosage was gradual. A July 23, 1997 New York Times article reported on patients who were given 10 times the normal dose of morphine with little respiratory effect.
Gastrointestinal Upset
Taking too much opium or morphine may cause gastrointestinal upset. The Mayo Clinic states that opium users could suffer vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea.
Withdrawal Sickness
Stopping opium or its derivatives must be done gradually over time. A quick discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms like sleeplessness, stomach cramps, body aches and stomach upset according to the Mayo Clinic.
