Terminology
Opioid - Any one of a group of substances that produce pharmacological and physiological effects simmilar to those of morphine. Opioids are not necessarily structurally simmilar to morphine, although a subgroup of opioids, the Opiates, are morphine derived compounds.
Opiate - One of a group of drugs derived from opium, an extract of the poppy plant that depresses brain function (a narcotic action). Opiates include morphine and its synthetic derivitives, such as heroin and codeine. They are used in medicine chiefly to relieve pain, but the use of morphine and heroin is strictly controlled as they can cause drug dependance and tolerance.
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