morphine

n. the primary active ingredient in opium, first synthesized in 1806 and widely used as an analgesic and sedative. It interacts predominantly with the mu opioid receptor. Prolonged administration or abuse can lead to dependence and to withdrawal symptoms on cessation. The substance is 10 times as potent as opium for pain relief. See opioid intoxication; opioid use disorder.

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Psychology term of the day

February 22nd 2025

micrographia

n. a disorder characterized by very small, often unreadable writing and associated most often with Parkinson’s disease.