The first time user of opiates usually will become nauseous and even vomit. The pupils constrict, pulse slows, blood pressure falls, and respiration slows. The user begins to feel warm, euphoric, and relaxed. As time progresses, feelings of fear, panic, and anxiety lessen. Depending on how much has been taken, this progresses into a drowsy, dreamy state leading to a deep sometimes-dreamless sleep. Repeated use leads to more appreciation of the narcotic effects of opiates. However, repeated use also leads to addiction. Opiates are a very determinate bunch. Unlike some drugs, if you habitually use opiates, you will become physically and possibly psychologically dependent. There are three different sequences that occur with opiates. The first of these is physical dependence. Physical dependence occurs when the body has become used to the opiate being there, and has adapted to using it in order to function properly. If the opiate is suddenly stopped, withdrawal symptoms will occur. These include restlessness, anxiety, rapid pulse, increased blood pressure, crying, runny nose, yawning, muscle spasms, back pain, tremors, and many other symptoms. These will usually begin 8 - 24 hours after the last dose, peak within 48 - 72 hours, and subside in about 7 - 10 days. Their severity depends on the opiate used, how often, and how much. The next sequence of events is tolerance. Tolerance occurs when the body gets used to a certain amount of the opiate being there, and it requires more and more to get the desired effect. Tolerance varies widely from person to person. The last of these is psychological dependence. Psychological dependence occurs when the person begins to “crave” the opiate effects. This type of dependence is known as addiction, and is very powerful and hard to overcome. It occurs after using the opiate for a long period of time, and last for a long time after stopping the opiate. Sometimes, even a lifetime. It doesn’t occur in all opiate users, but can before you even know it. Addiction to opiates is a long hard battle to beat. Use sense when using opiates. Don’t end up cursing the day you discovered the “joy plant”.