Specific narcotics

Codeine

Hydrocodone

Oxycodone

Morphine

Fentanyl

Hydromorphone

Meperidine

Heroin

Heroin

Many people wonder about the use of heroin for the treatment of severe cancer pain. About 35 years ago in England, the hospice movement led the way to much more effective relief of cancer pain. Heroin (called diamorphine in England) was the medication used there for many years in their successful relief of cancer pain.

In the United States, heroin is illegal. Naturally, people have been concerned that those suffering cancer pain were being denied better relief because heroin was not available to them legally.

However, research has clearly shown that heroin is quickly changed into morphine in the body, and that pain relief is the same with either heroin or morphine.

Making heroin legal in the U.S. would not result in any improvements in the relief of cancer pain.


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