Heroin is an opioid drug made from morphine, a natural substance taken from poppy plants.
Heroin powder is white, brown or black "tar." People inject, sniff, snort or smoke heroin. Some mix heroin with crack cocaine to produce a deadly "speedball."
Heroin is a highly addictive, deadly narcotic. People who use heroin regularly quickly develop "tolerance," in which they require higher and more frequent doses to achieve an effect. Once addicted, it's tough to stop using heroin because of horrible withdrawal symptoms that can include: diarrhea and vomiting, excruciating muscle and bone pain, insomnia, twitching, intense cravings for more heroin, severe depression and suicidal thoughts.
Heroin often contains harmful additives that can clog blood vessels, leading to permanent organ damage in the lungs, liver, kidneys or brain. Sharing needles often leads heroin users to contract deadly diseases, including HIV, Hepatitis and bacterial infections. Many people overdose and die.
Medicated Assisted Treatment has been shown to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, help people return to work and avoid overdose death. If you need help finding the best treatment options for you, call the BAC MAP for free, confidential, professional assistance at 1-888-880-8222.