Narcotics

  • Include such substances as heroin, morphine, opium, and codeine as well as methadone, meperidine (Demerol), hydromorphine (Dilaudin), and such drugs as Percocet, Percodan, Darvon, Talwin, Lortab, Lorcet, Anexia, etc.
  • Narcotics initially produce a feeling of euphoria that often is followed by drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting. Users also may experience constricted pupils, watery eyes, and itching. An overdose may produce slow and shallow breathing, clammy skin, convulsions, coma, and possibly death.
  • Tolerance to narcotics develops rapidly and dependence is likely. The use of contaminated syringes may result in disease such as AIDS, endocarditis, and hepatitis. Addiction in pregnant women can lead to premature, stillborn, or addicted infants who experience severe withdrawal symptoms.