MORPHINE -- Morphine, the principal constituent of opium, can range in concentrations
from four to twenty-one percent (note: commercial opium is standardized to contain ten percent morphine). It is one of the most effective drugs known
for the relief of pain, and remains the standard against which new analgesics are measured. Morphine is marketed in a variety of forms including oral
solutions (Roxanol), sustained-release tablets (MSIR and MS-Contin), suppositories and injectable preparations. It may be administered orally,
subcutaneously, intramuscularly, or intravenously, the latter method being the one most frequently used by addicts. Tolerance and physical dependence
develop rapidly in the user. Only a small part of the morphine obtained from opium is used directly; most of it is converted to codeine and other
derivatives.
top. . .
HYDROCODONE -- Hydrocodone is an orally active analgesic and antitussive Schedule II
narcotic which is marketed in multi-ingredient Schedule III products. The therapeutic dose of 5-10 mg is pharmacologically equivalent to 60 mg of
oral morphine. Sales and production of this drug have increased significantly in recent years as have diversion and illicit use. Trade names include
Anexsia, Hycodan, Hycoming, Lorcet, Lortab, Tussionex, and Vicodin. These are available as tablets, capsules and/or syrups.
top. . .
VICODIN -- Vicodin combines a narcotic
analgesic (painkiller) and cough reliever with a non-narcotic analgesic for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain. Vicodin can be
habit-forming, and if taken over a long period of time, the user can become mentally and physically dependent on the drug.
top. . .
METHADONE -- German scientists synthesized methadone during World War II because of a shortage of morphine. Although chemically unlike
morphine or heroin, methadone produces many of the same effects.
Introduced into the United States in 1947 as an analgesic (Dolophine), Methadone is primarily used today for the treatment of narcotic
addiction. The effects of methadone are longer-lasting than those of morphine-based drugs. Methadone's effects can last up to 24 hours,
thereby permitting administration only once a day in heroin detoxification and maintenance programs.
Methadone is almost as effective when administered orally as it is by injection. Tolerance and dependence may develop, and withdrawal
symptoms, though they develop more slowly and are less severe than those of morphine and heroin, are more prolonged. Ironically, methadone
used to control narcotic addiction, is frequently encountered on the illicit market and has been associated with a number of overdose deaths.
top. . .
© 2003 Rapid Detox Referral