Heroin is a synthetic opiate derived from morphine and is illegal to manufacture, distribute or possess. Originally intended as a less addictive replacement to morphine, it is nearly four times as addictive. Heroin is also a very powerful narcotic and thus habit forming. Heroin can be swallowed or sniffed in powder form, injected intravenously or heated and inhaled ("chasing the dragon"). Heroin is known on the street as:
Effects of Heroin on the Human Body
Heroin is a synthetic opiate and binds to receptors in the central nervous system that typically bind with the body's own physiological opioids such as endorphins and enkephalins. Heroin (and similar opioids) is frequently abused because it creates enormous feelings of comfort and euphoria.
Long Term Effects of Heroin Use
As an individual continues to use heroin, the body very quickly develops a tolerance to its effects and increasing amounts of heroin must be taken to produce the same effects. Frequent users can tolerate dosing that would kill uninitiated users. Most long term problems with heroin use arise from the chosen delivery mechanism of the heroin addict: abscesses, inflammation of the heart and veins, blood poisoning, viral infections such as HIV and hepatitis, and brain damage in a limited number of cases.
Heroin Rehab and Detox Considerations
Due to its illegal nature, heroin addiction is typically devastating for the user and his/her loved ones. Often times, the heroin addict is compelled to enter treatment because of criminal proceedings. As heroin has severe withdrawals (psychological cravings, sense of poor well-being, extreme cramps, nausea, diarrhea, muscle pain/spasms and insomnia, it is vital that individuals have proper drug detox prior to treatment.
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