Final answer:
The sale of OTC opium is illegal as it is a controlled substance. The opioid crisis has escalated due to regulated pain medications leading to the use of illegal alternatives. A quality control chemist in the pharmaceutical industry ensures proper dispensing of medicines.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sale of over-the-counter (OTC) opium is illegal; opium is a controlled substance and is not available OTC in liquid or dosage units. Opium and its derivatives, including Heroin, Fentanyl, Morphine, Oxycodone, Vicodin, and methadone, are prescription drugs that are regulated due to their high potential for addiction and abuse. The opioid crisis, partially fueled by prescription drug addiction and scarcity, has led to the rise of illegal opioids and a significant increase in overdose deaths. Hence, opium cannot be sold OTC, and any amount of opium sold without a prescription is illegal.
In contrast, the pharmaceutical industry utilizes stringent quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and precision of medication dispensing.