Opiates aren't a catastrophe because they are illegal, they are a catastrophe because government prosecutes the victims and not the perpetrators (manufacters/dealers).
Not true at all. One could safely be a long-time heroin addict with a supply with guaranteed purity and strength. Not a recommended lifestyle, but it's true.
I agree with the government victimization but legal drugs implies purity and labeling requirements to allow choices to be better informed.