Chapter 37, Problem 1BS.1QC

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

Should a form of heroin with only the desirable effects and no side effects be legalised.

Introduction:

Heroin is an opiate as it is derived from the sap or resin of the opium poppy plant. Morphine and oxycodone are also classed as opiates. Heroin binds to the receptors of endorphins (neurotransmitter) in the brain causes a feeling of tranquility and relieves pain.

Explanation of Solution

The side effect of using heroine is that it is addictive. This addiction causes heroine abuse which increases the tolerance and withdrawal symptoms develop if the tolerance level is not met. Tremors, cramps, vomiting and restlessness are some of the withdrawal symptoms.

All this is caused because of the mode of action of heroine. It binds to the endorphin receptors in the brain. Endorphins are neurotransmitters that kill pain and clams a person.

If a form is created that lacks the side effects and only has the desired affects of pain relief and euphoria, its mode of action (binding to the receptors in the brain) will have to stay the same otherwise the desired affects are impossible. So, if its mode of action is same as before, then the chance of addiction by drug abuse still persists.

So, if this were to be legalized then laws have to be made to allow only a doctor prescribed possession of the new heroine just like many other drugs that need prescription. Moreover, the dosage that is beneficial and causes no addiction must be prescribed too. This might prevent abuse of this drug.

Conclusion

If this new form of heroin was to be legalized then strict laws for the procurement, dosage and possession of this drug must be established to prevent its abuse as the probability of addiction still persists.