Opium poppy is known to have existed for at least 100 million years and used by humans since prehistorical times. The Handbook on Opium traces the history of opium from prehistory, its use in Greek and Egyptian medicine, European renaissance, and modern history through the opioid epidemic of present day. It explores the discovery of morphine, its alkaloids and evolution of synthetic opioids. Further, it discusses biological effects of opium and alkaloids, including molecular basis of their actions, genetics and therapeutic targets for future clinical applications. The book is interspersed with numerous vignettes on the events and minds who advocated, analyzed, and advanced the use of opium through history. It is a comprehensive review of opium, covering a wide range of topics including history, botany, chemistry, trade, physiology, clinical use, and molecular biology of opium, with numerous references, tables, and illustrations all compiled in a single handbook. Key Features The book provides a comprehensive review of opium in two sections: Section 1 explores the history, botany, and trade of opium. Section 2 review the chemistry, molecular biology, clinical uses, adverse effects including addiction, and strategies to improve therapeutic benefits. It is filled with historical vignettes and images, tables, and numerous illustrations to aid understanding. It is authored by a practicing clinician, integrating historical information with pharmacology and therapeutic aspects of opium. Book jacket.