Opioids and the problems they cause are in the headlines daily, but this drug's global impact actually began thousands of years ago. In this series, "The History of Opium," we will explore the substance's first known use in antiquity and work our way up to the current crisis. Our first installment features excerpts from an interview with author Kenaz Filan, whose book, "The Power of the Poppy: Harnessing Nature's Most Dangerous Ally," chronicles some of the earliest uses of papaver somniferum, aka the opium poppy.

This episode is sponsored by True Recovery. If you or someone you care for is dealing with addiction, you know that finding a treatment option that works for you can be extremely frustrating. The truth is, every patient's needs are different - and constantly evolving. TrueRecovery.com

And now, DrDrew.com presents "The History of Opium,"

This episode is presented by True Recovery, www.truerecovery.com