Narcotics are primarily used for what purpose?

Narcotics, also known as opioids, are primarily used for pain relief due to their analgesic properties. They work by binding to specific receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body, which effectively blocks the perception of pain. This action not only alleviates discomfort from acute injuries or surgeries but also manages chronic pain conditions when other treatments may not be effective.

The other options reflect purposes that do not align with the primary function of narcotics. For instance, enhancing appetite is typically associated with certain medications or conditions but is not a goal of narcotic use. Similarly, while some medications are designed to stimulate digestion or prevent infections, narcotics do not serve these functions. Their primary role remains focused on pain management, making the choice of pain relief the accurate answer.