Which statement about opioids (narcotics) is true?

Which statement about opioids (narcotics) is true?

• A. Treat infections
• B. Increase appetite
• C. Relieve pain and produce euphoria
• D. Improve memory

Answer: (C)

Opioids act as powerful pain relievers by binding to receptors in the brain and spinal cord, dampening pain signals and changing how pain is perceived. They also can produce euphoria by activating the brain’s reward pathways, which explains their potential for misuse and dependence. They do not treat infections, they do not reliably increase appetite (in fact, they often cause nausea and constipation that can lower appetite), and they do not improve memory (they can impair cognition). So the statement that captures both pain relief and potential for euphoria is the true one.

Opioids act as powerful pain relievers by binding to receptors in the brain and spinal cord, dampening pain signals and changing how pain is perceived. They also can produce euphoria by activating the brain’s reward pathways, which explains their potential for misuse and dependence. They do not treat infections, they do not reliably increase appetite (in fact, they often cause nausea and constipation that can lower appetite), and they do not improve memory (they can impair cognition). So the statement that captures both pain relief and potential for euphoria is the true one.