Street price of opium in selected countries

In 2007, the price per gram of opium was variable across different countries. Canada had the highest price per gram of opium at almost 64 U.S. dollars per gram. Among countries with lower costs for opium, China had the lowest costs at less than two U.S. dollars per gram. Opium is a depressant drug derived from the seedpods of the poppy flower.

Opioid usage

Opium is a form of opioid which acts on brain function and slows the body’s responses. It is estimated that Asia has the highest share of all opioid users globally. There are many types of opioids available by prescription including Fentanyl, OxyContin and Vicodin. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid available by prescription for pain management. Globally, the United States has the highest percentage of fentanyl consumption.

Global drug deaths

Other illicit drugs that are used globally include cannabis, amphetamines, opiates, cocaine and ecstasy. In general, global illegal drug use has been on the rise. The most frequently used illicit drug globally is cannabis, followed by opioids and amphetamines. Illegal use of drugs often leads to serious complications. Opioid use disorders were the second leading cause of deaths attributable to drug use worldwide in 2016.