What is OPIUM? Opium is a highly addictive narcotic drug acquired in the dried latex form from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) seed pod. What does it look like? A black or brown block of tar like substance. What are its short-term effects? Opium can cause euphoria, followed by a sense of well-being and a calm drowsiness or sedation. Breathing slows, potentially to...Read more...