In which century did the tension between the medicinal benefits of opioids and the risks of abuse and addiction begin?

The correct answer is the 19th century because this period marked significant developments in the understanding and use of opioids in medicine. During the 1800s, the isolation of morphine from opium by Friedrich Sertürner in 1804 led to its medical usage for pain relief, which showcased its effective analgesic properties. However, as morphine became more widely used, it also became clear that it possessed a high potential for addiction and abuse. This duality between the medicinal benefits of opioids and the emerging awareness of their risks began to surface prominently during the 19th century, leading to public health discussions and concerns that laid the groundwork for the ongoing debate about opioid use. The discussions and societal impacts of opioid addiction escalated through the years, particularly as opiate prescriptions and usage increased, highlighting the tension between their medical utility and the dangers of dependency.

Therefore, understanding the context of medical practices and societal responses during the 19th century is crucial for recognizing how the opioid crisis began to take shape historically.