Narcotics

NARCOTICS. - Unlike hypnotics (v.), they are those substances that determine a far deeper sleep (Gr. ναρκωτικός = that induces torpor), with a state of absolute dulling of consciousness, muscular relaxation, abolition of reflexes, often notable alterations of cerebral circulation. In medical practice, narcosis - also called general anesthesia - uses medications that can be taken by inhalation (chloroform, ethyl ether, ethyl chloride, nitrous oxide, ethylene), by rectal route (avertin) or intravenously (sodium evipan, eunarcon, pentothal, narcovene and other derivatives of malonylurea).

The necessity of narcosis is made evident by the practical impossibility of enduring the often atrocious pains associated with the probing and lengthy manipulations characteristic of modern surgery, and by the need to prevent the uncontrollable instinctive defensive movements that could compromise the precision and safety of the operation and would prevent the complete relaxation of the muscular walls, necessary to properly control the operating field. Such a practical necessity morally legitimizes the use of narcotics to obtain general anesthesia (v.).

Giuseppe de Ninnu