Which classification do codeine, morphine, and opium fall under?

Codeine, morphine, and opium are classified as narcotics, which primarily refer to opioid drugs that are used to relieve pain. This classification includes substances derived from opium, such as morphine, which is naturally derived from the opium poppy, and codeine, which is a less potent derivative. Narcotics act on the central nervous system to produce analgesia (pain relief) and sedation.

Understanding this classification is important in the context of substance use, as narcotics can be both medically beneficial and potentially harmful due to their addictive nature and the risk of dependency. This is in contrast to the other classifications, which have different pharmacological effects and uses. Stimulants, for example, enhance alertness and energy levels; hallucinogens alter perception and consciousness; and antipsychotics are primarily used to manage mental health disorders, particularly psychosis. Therefore, the classification of codeine, morphine, and opium as narcotics accurately reflects their pharmacological properties and the effects they have on the body.