Opiods are analgesics derived from opium made from poppy plants or similar synthetic compounds. Not only are opiods able to block pain signals and reduce pain; they can also affect other neurotransmitters. And because of their potential of physical and psychological dependency and addiction, opiods are classified as narcotic analgesics.

What is the addiction?

Addiction occurs when a person develops a physical need, such as anxiety, irritability, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and insomnia, or a psychological need, in this case for medication, such as compulsive use, craving the drug, or needing it to feel good.

How are the narcotics classified?

The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 classifies narcotics into different schedules according to the drug’s potential of abuse. For example, Ultram and Darvocet, which have a low risk for physical dependency and addiction, are schedule IV opiod analgesics. Schedule III opiod analgesics such as Lortab, Tylenol #3, and Vicodin have a low to moderate potential of physical or psychological dependence. While, Demerol, Duragesic patch, MsContin, Percocet and Oxycontin fall under Schedule II and cannot be automatically refilled because of their high abuse potential and severe physical and psychological dependency.

What is a “Narcotic Agreement”?

In view of the fact that narcotics can be addictive, patients are required to consent to adhere to certain rules regarding the use of their narcotic medications listed in a "Narcotic Agreement" between the patient and physician. Often, violation of this contract, especially selling, sharing, trading the medication, attempting to obtain duplicate pain medication prescriptions from different physicians, and attempting to have the medication refilled early, at night, or on the weekend, to mention a few, would result in the patient's discharge from the practice

How serious is it when the Narcotic Agreement is violated?

Actions such as selling, trading, sharing, purchasing, to mention a few, are considered criminal acts and can be punishable up to 10 years of jail time and up to $250,000 in fines.

What are the other side effects of the narcotics?

Narcotic side effects may include dizziness, sedation, fatigue, headache, nausea and constipation. And it is because of these side effects that people starting narcotic therapy need to start at the lowest dose possible, particularly elderly patients who may be more vulnerable.

By Dr. Yong H. Tsai
Published in The Daytona Beach News-Journal
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