Heroin is made from morphine, a naturally occurring substance taken from the seeds of the Asian poppy plant. Through a slight chemical change, morphine is changed into heroin, though ironically once heroin enters the blood brain barrier; it is transformed back into morphine.
Heroin generally comes as a white or brown powder, though the brown variety can have a sticky or tar like appearance. Heroin can be injected, snorted or smoked. As with most drugs, injection directly into the vein creates an immediate rush. Smoking heroin also creates an almost immediate rush as the smoke fills the lungs.
Heroin creates a rush of pleasure or euphoria and as the rush dissipates, the user falls into a dreamy, pleasant state with various degrees of comprehension and awareness commonly referred to being “on the nod.” Usage creates a high tolerance for physical pain, a flushing of the skin, and slowing of breathe. Users also report a heavy sensation to their body and appendages. Nausea and vomiting are not unusual side effects to heroin usage, as is constipation and dilation of the pupils. A heroin high can last up to a few hours, depending on dosage taken and user tolerance.
Heroin used with cocaine is commonly called speedballing, combining the dream-like state of heroin with the energizing effects of cocaine.
Main risks with heroin usage:
Heroin is considered a highly physically and psychologically addictive drug. Once hooked, most users find it difficult to stop usage. Most users use Methadone, a synthetic opiate medication that blocks the effects of heroin for about 24 hours. Other approved medications are naloxone, which is used to treat cases of overdose, and naltrexone, both of which block the effects of morphine, heroin, and other opiates. Sudden withdrawal from heavy heroin usage can cause respiratory failure or fatality.
Heroin should not be combined with other drugs that suppress breathing. Alcohol, barbiturates, ketamine and GHB are very dangerous when combined with heroin and can lead to cessation of breathing.
Heroin overdose can be lethal. Overdose can occur with first time users as well as long time users. Medical attention should be sought immediately if overdose is suspected.
Drug Class: Opioids / Opiate analgesics
Common Terms: Big H, H, horse, mojo, smack, white lady, brown, skag, junk, Mexican black tar
Risk reduction with heroin usage:
Remember, Heroin is extremely addictive, no matter how it is used so do a small amount first, to test the potency. Avoid using heroin while alone or in a locked room. Snorting brings the risk of hepatitis so avoid sharing straws or bills. Injecting brings the risk of infection, abscess, vein damage, blood clots, all of which can lead to serious medical problems and even death. Learn how to inject safely. Avoid sharing needles, cookers, cotton filters, water, or alcohol pads. Sharing your works can pass HIV, hepatitis and other infections. Used needles can damage veins as well. Prepare your injection on a clean surface, also clean your skin with soap and water or an alcohol pad. You can get injection supplies from a syringe exchange, a pharmacy, or your local health department. If you can’t get a hold of new needles, try smoking or snorting your heroin instead. Also, remember that possession of heroin can carry serious legal ramifications.
