Abstract: A composition which is percutaneously absorbable, including a narcotic analgesic selected from the group consisting of morphine and analogous analgesics thereof; from 1 to 20 weight percent of a percutaneous absorption accelerator comprised of one of (a) a terpene and (b) an essential oil; from 10 to 60 weight percent of a percutaneous absorption accelerating assistant comprised of one of (a) a lower alcohol having 1-5 carbon atoms, (b) water and (c) a lower glycol having 2-5 carbon atoms.