Which substance is considered a non-narcotic?

Alcohol is classified as a non-narcotic substance because it does not fall within the category of narcotic drugs, which are typically defined as substances that dull the senses and relieve pain, often leading to physical dependence. Narcotic substances primarily include opioids, which act on the brain's opioid receptors to produce pain relief as well as euphoria.

Morphine, oxycodone, and codeine are all opioids and are therefore narcotics. They are specifically used to treat severe pain and are subject to strict regulations due to their potential for abuse and dependence. In contrast, while alcohol can impair judgment and motor functions and may lead to addiction, it operates through different mechanisms in the brain and does not exhibit the same level of pain-relieving properties associated with narcotics. Thus, alcohol is correctly identified as the non-narcotic option in this context.