Today, unfortunately, we often read and hear about “dope” addicts, and their addiction problem is of great concern to our society.

“Dope” is a slang term for “narcotics.” Narcotics are habit-forming drugs which lessen pain and cause drowsiness. They give a temporary feeling of wellbeing which is called “narcosis.” Some narcotics are very useful, but they must all be used only when given by a physician!

The reason for this is that if they are used often, they are habit-forming. The person becomes an “addict.” This means he must take the drug regularly, or he suffers greatly when he is without it. Once addiction is started, it is difficult to overcome. Addicts often will pay large sums to buy illegal drugs and they will steal and commit crimes, if necessary, to pay for them.

Five of the best known narcotic drugs are: morphine, codeine, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana. Morphine is one of the most useful drugs for the relief of pain and to prevent the harmful effects of severe pain. It is obtained from opium. Morphine affects the brain more than it does other organs of the body. Worries disappear, and the patient becomes relaxed, quiet, and often drowsy. However, the senses of hearing, sight, and touch do not change.

Codeine relieves pain but it has very little effect on the mind. So it is not often used by “dope addicts.” Heroin, however, does give this feeling of well being, but it is a poor relief for severe pain. Since it is habit-forming but without much medical value, it is against the law in the United States to manufacture it.

Cocaine is a narcotic made from the leaves of the coca shrub. It affects the mind most seriously. Marijuana comes from certain plants, especially hemp. It has no medical use, and it is used by addicts in the form of cigarettes (the dried leaves and flowers are used instead of tobacco).

No person—of any age—should ever take any narcotic drugs with out the care and guidance of a doctor!