About Heroin Addiction

Heroin is a synthetic opiate, derived from morphine, but 4 times as addictive. It is illegal to manufacture, distribute or possess. Heroin is very addictive and habit forming, as frequent repeated intake causes a rapid development of tolerance. It is a Schedule I narcotic drug. Heroin produces an intense ‘euphoria,’ upon intake, however, it disappears with increasing tolerance. Although the chemical structure is similar to morphine, indeed Heroin metabolizes into Morphine in the brain, and other opioids, many Heroin users claim somewhat different perceived effects, thus making it a more popular recreational drug. Heroin is taken orally, nasally, by smoking, intravenously and through other less common methods.

Side Effects Of Heroin

Severe physiological side effects include respiratory arrest, seizure, spontaneous abortion for pregnant women, coma and death. Less severe side effects include lowered heart rate, shallow respiration, nausea, vomiting, constipation, urinary retention, dry mouth, and pupil constriction, itching, and rash. Psychological side effects include confusion, euphoria, somnolence, and addiction.

Withdrawal

Withdrawal symptoms include sweating, malaise, anxiety, depression, insomnia, vomiting diarrhea, goose bumps, ‘itchy blood,’ muscle spasms. Heroin users who attempt detoxification ‘cold turkey’ (without medication or preparation) are much more likely to experience these negative withdrawal symptoms in a much more pronounced manner. See below for further withdrawal information.

Heroin Detox and Abuse Rehabilitation

Detoxification from Heroin is critical, prior to commencing rehabilitation. Although detoxification itself is not a treatment for addiction, it can help relieve withdrawal symptoms while the patient adjusts to being Heroin free. Fortunately, there are a number of effective options for treating Heroin addiction. Long-term Heroin use should not be abruptly discontinued except under the supervision of an experienced physician, who can manage the withdrawal symptoms and minimize the withdrawal period.