Which of the following is NOT a drug in the opiate family with legitimate use in the U.S.?

Heroin is known as a highly addictive and illegal drug that falls under the opiate family; however, it does not have any legitimate medical use in the United States. This classification stems from its high potential for abuse and the severe health risks associated with its use.

In contrast, codeine, oxycodone, and morphine are opioids that are commonly used for legitimate medical purposes. They are prescribed for pain management and have regulated medical applications. Codeine, for instance, is often used to treat mild to moderate pain and can also act as a cough suppressant. Oxycodone is frequently prescribed for managing more severe pain. Morphine is widely used in clinical settings, especially for acute pain management in hospital settings.

Thus, while the other substances serve valid therapeutic roles, heroin is strictly controlled and prohibited for medical use. This distinction is essential for understanding how various substances within the opiate family are categorized and utilized in healthcare.