Legal Definitions - narcotics

Narcotics are drugs that can change the way you feel or dull your senses. They can be made in a lab or taken from plants. In the United States, narcotics are controlled substances and are classified into different schedules based on their potential for abuse and medical use.

Examples of narcotics include:

• Opium and opiates, like heroin and morphine
• Cocaine and crack cocaine
• Methadone and fentanyl

It is illegal to sell or possess narcotics without a prescription from a doctor or dentist. In California, for example, possessing narcotics can result in up to one year in jail.

The examples illustrate the definition because they are all drugs that can be addictive and dangerous if not used properly. They can also have serious side effects and can lead to overdose or death. It is important to only use narcotics under the guidance of a medical professional.