Category: Opioid Class

Oxycodone was first made available in the United States

The Anti-Heroin Act bans the production and sale of heroin in the United States.

Heroin for medical use outlawed

Hydrocodone developed by US/European companies

Heroin for non-medical purposes outlawed under the Harrison Narcotics Act

Congress passes the Harrison Narcotics Act, which requires that doctors write prescriptions for narcotic drugs like opioids and cocaine. Importers, manufacturers and distributors of narcotics must register with the Treasury Department and pay taxes on product.

Opioids only prescribed for acute, severe pain. Not used for chronic pain. Most addicts were on heroin in urban areas.