Synthetic narcotics (or synthetic opioids) are fully man-made substances created in laboratories to mimic the pain-relieving effects of natural opiates. Unlike natural opiates such as morphine or codeine that come directly from the opium poppy, synthetic opioids are chemically produced without using natural opium compounds as their base. These drugs are designed to bind to opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system, blocking pain signals while often producing feelings of relaxation and euphoria.

Semi-synthetic opiates (or opioids) are laboratory-modified substances  that are referred to as "Hybrids of Nature and Science." They are created in a laboratory with natural opiates like morphine and codeine, and they are then enhanced and/or altered in their effects. Semi-synthetic opiates are considered highly addictive due to their effect on the brain receptors.  Semi-synthetic opiates start with a naturally derived base from the poppy opium, then are structurally modified in a lab by human intervention. These drugs are primarily used to modify the effects of the natural opiates' pain relief and reduce side effects, while also serving as a better absorption.  

Natural (Opiates) are considered "Straight from the source." As they are refined specifically from the resin of the Papaver somniferum (opium poppy). Opiates have been associated for around 5,000 to 8,000 years, dating back to the Neolithic Age, when they were primarily cultivated for medicinal, ritual, and recreational purposes. Nowadays, opiates are primarily used in three specific medical contexts: pain relief, cough suppression, and diarrhea treatment.