Opium is a narcotic drug derivative of the poppy plant. Drug Information Online describes this drug as available only by prescription, and typically issued for the abatement of diarrhea in cancer patients. It comes in liquid form usually given orally in a tincture or traditional liquid although street drug use is a tarry black substance which is smoked. In the case of cancer, use of opium has benefits that outweigh the risks of malnutrition caused by treatments and progressive decline. However, uncontrolled street use of opium is considered extremely dangerous and lethal to the user.
Allergic Reactions
There can be a number of allergic reactions attributed to opium use, most of them being quite serious to life-threatening. Allergic reactions to opium can manifest as rash, hives, itching, breathing difficulties, tightness in the chest, and swelling of the mouth, face, lips and tongue. Further complications can result in confusion, urination problems, irregular heartbeat and severe dizziness. Acute respiratory failure is seen in larger doses and can lead to unconsciousness and death.
Respiratory Depression
As seen with allergic reactions, opium is notable for its ability to depress the respiratory system. The American Cancer Society posits that while opium tinctures are generally prescribed for diarrhea in cancer patients, the benefits of using this drug must outweigh the many potential risks associated with it. For example, opium depresses the central nervous system, beginning with respiratory depression signs such as slowed or irregular breathing patterns and leading to drowsiness, dizziness and lightheadedness, pinpoint pupils of the eyes, general confusion and overall weakness. In large doses, blood pressure may drop extremely and dangerously low, creating cold, clammy skin and lead to convulsions and even death. This drug, if prescribed legitimately, needs to be closely monitored by physicians and caregivers as an accidental overdose is potentially fatal.
Physical Dependence
Physical dependence relates to the tolerance levels that must be maintained to avoid cravings and withdrawal symptoms. According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, long-term use of opium creates a tolerance level that increases over time and requires more and more of the drug in order to feel its euphoric effects. If the amount of the drug present in the body is decreased or stopped suddenly, painful physical symptoms begin as the homeostasis--body balance--is altered and missing a component of its functioning. While this functioning is skewed to make allowances for the presence of the drug, the body goes into withdrawal and longs for more of the drug to maintain the way it has been functioning for an extended period.
Psychological Dependence
Psychological dependence aids in the physical dependence on opium, as it becomes an addiction problem. The high experienced from opium's euphoric effects becomes craving, and the mind becomes fixated on finding the next high. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America suggests that as the tolerance levels to the drug increase, so too does the likelihood that the individual using it will want to maintain the effects that it can bring.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal from opium can be physically painful. Narconon Trois-Rivières lists withdrawal symptoms as nausea, sweating, cramps, vomiting and diarrhea. Complications associated with opium withdrawal include loss of appetite, muscle spasms, depression anxiety, mood swings, insomnia and malnutrition.
