Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which term refers to drugs that are often labeled as narcotics?

1. Cannabinoids

2. Opioids

3. Stimulants

4. Antidepressants

The correct answer is: Opioids

The term that refers to drugs often labeled as narcotics is opioids. Opioids are substances that are derived from the opium poppy or have similar effects on the body. They are primarily used for their analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, which can lead to them being classified as narcotics. This classification generally encompasses both natural opiates, such as morphine and codeine, as well as synthetic and semi-synthetic drugs like oxycodone and fentanyl. The term "narcotics" traditionally refers to substances that induce sleep or pain relief, but it is most commonly associated with opioids in modern pharmacological contexts. While cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system and can have medicinal properties, and stimulants function to increase alertness and energy, neither of these categories fits the narcotic label. Antidepressants, on the other hand, are aimed at treating mood disorders and do not share the pain-relieving or sedative effects characteristic of narcotics. Therefore, opioids are correctly identified as the drugs typically labeled as narcotics due to their significant pain-relieving qualities and potential for misuse.