Opium is a mixture of substances that are derived from a tar-like material in the fruit of the opium poppy. The earliest available reference to the cultivation of poppies dates back to about 5000 BC as evident from clay tablets left by the Sumerians. The ancient Sumerian and Mesopotamian cultures passed opium on to the Assyrians, Babylonians, and Egyptians, and the Greeks introduced it to India and Persia. Thus, opium has a very long history of using for recreation, medicine, and religious rituals. Besides, it was taken as a drug – to reach euphoric sensations.
Look through the given infographic. As you can see, the U.S. government has been regulating the manufacture and distribution of opium for medical purposes. At the same time, the abuse of this drug remains a serious problem throughout the world, with millions of users spanning the globe.
Opioid-type medications that doctors prescribe to help alleviate painful ailments have addictive properties. Street opioid drugs are usually even more addictive and dangerous as they are mixed with synthetic and more potent ingredients.
AddictionResource authors say it’s vital to seek help as soon as you notice that your (or someone else’s) consumption of opioids, either legal or illegal, has gone out of control.
Infographic by: addictionresource
