With the development of morphine medical world leaped forward – this drug was sometimes referred to as “wonder drug” since it allowed eliminating severe pain caused by various reasons. However, the drug had intense euphoric side effects, and that is how it got its name – after a Greek god of dreams Morpheus. Soon enough the German pharmacist’s invention became wide spread and reached the United States. During the Civil War numbing morphine was commonly used to deal with soldiers’ wounds, and after the war the drug showed off its side effect that was finally noticed– addiction. Morphine became an epidemic, so to address this problem a new drug was created by German scientists that was called after its trade-marked name – Heroin. Soon after its invention it has been marketed in US as a safe, non-addictive alternative to morphine and the doctors started prescribing this opiate derivate instead of the other. Beginning in late 1800s up until early 1900s the substances were sold over the counter in fancy kits with engravings on the lid, and often times a combination of drugs were sold together – either cocaine and morphine, or cocaine and heroin. As a treatment to various ailments alcohol based opium, Laudanum, was administered to both kids and adults. Various opium based drugs were marketed as a cure for anything and everything – from cold and toothache to serious mental problems.

For the longest time heroin and morphine, along with other opium derivatives were not regulated substances since the real danger was not recognized until 1920s. After the enactment of Dangerous Drugs Act it became illegal to sell and buy these substances over the counter and distribution of opium based drugs became federally regulated.