narcotic

Pronunciation: nar-kot′ik

Definition:

1. Originally, any drug derived from opium or opiumlike compounds with potent analgesic effects associated with both significant alteration of mood and behavior and with potential for dependence and tolerance.
2. More recently, any drug, synthetic or naturally occurring, with effects similar to those of opium and opium derivatives, including meperidine, fentanyl, and their derivatives.
3. Capable of inducing a state of stuporous analgesia.

[G. narkōtikos, benumbing]

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