Opiates - GCSE Biology Definition

Opiates are a group of drugs derived from the opium poppy plant and are mainly used as painkillers to relieve severe pain. Common examples include morphine and codeine. Opiates work by blocking pain signals in the brain, making them effective for pain relief. However, they can be addictive and may cause side effects such as drowsiness or nausea. It is important that opiates are used carefully and only under medical supervision. In GCSE Biology, opiates are studied to help understand how the body processes pain and how certain medicines affect the nervous system.