The origin of opiates: the opium poppy Opiates, including morphine and codeine, are naturally derived from the opium poppy plant. (more) What’s the Difference Between Opioids and Opiates? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/science/Whats-the-Difference-Between-Opioids-and-Opiates Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written by Virginia Hunt Virginia Hunt is an Editorial Intern at Encyclopædia Britannica. She is a third year student at Northwestern University where she is majoring in journalism and biology with a minor in creative writing.... Virginia Hunt Fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Aug 21, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot The primary difference between opioids and opiates lies in their origin and composition. Opiates are naturally derived from the opium poppy plant, whereas opioids include both opiates and synthetic substances that act on opioid receptors in the brain. Opiates include naturally occurring alkaloids such as morphine and codeine. These drugs are typically used in medical settings for their analgesic properties, providing pain relief by binding to specific receptors in the brain that regulate pain or mood. Opioids encompass a broader category that includes natural opiates as well as synthetic or semisynthetic substances. The latter groups include drugs such as oxycodone, ...(100 of 208 words)

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