What are three features of narcotics that distinguish them ...

[CBme]

What are three features of narcotics that distinguish them pharmacologically from other drugs with sedative-hypnotic properties, such as barbiturates and benzodiazepines?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Briefly describe the system the British presently use in dealing with heroin addiction.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[Dinolord]

Answer to Question 1

Narcotics (opiates) bind stereospecifically to endorphin/enkephalin receptors, produce profound analgesia without inducing sleep, and their effects are blocked with naloxone or naltrexone. Barbiturates and benzodiazepines induce actions via non-opioid receptors, and their effects are not blocked with naloxone or naltrexone. Barbiturates only produce significant analgesia with anesthetic-sleep, and benzodiazepines are not analgesics, nor can they produce a state of surgical anesthesia when used alone.

Answer to Question 2

Since the early 1900s, the British have viewed addiction as a medical problem. Thus, they have allowed physicians to prescribe heroin, while criminal penalties are applied for the illicit sale of opiates. They presently allow only specially licensed physicians to prescribe heroin (or cocaine) for the addict, but they tend to emphasize the use of oral methadone. Although most of these physicians are affiliated with special Drug Dependence Units, any physician can apply for a license.