Controlled Opiate Use

Abstract

This paper is intended to counter the prevailing tendency to disregard or dismiss nonaddictive patterns of opiate use. Studies conducted during the 1970s pointed out the existence of large numbers of occasional opiate users, but left unresolved questions about how well controlled such use might be. Findings from research on long-term, moderate opiate users show that controlled use is possible and should be distinguished from compulsive/addictive opiate use. Several hypotheses which suggest that controlled use is an "artifact" are contradicted by the study findings. Some of the implications for future research on opiate use are discussed.