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Heroin is a highly addictive opioid derived from morphine. It’s classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the U.S., meaning it’s illegal, has no accepted medical use, and carries a high risk of abuse and addiction.
As the opioid crisis continues, overdose rates have actually declined nationwide1. However, for this trend to continue, education and access to safe and affordable care are necessary. When it comes to heroin, the risks are especially high due to its potency, unpredictable purity, and frequent contamination with substances like fentanyl. Even a single use can lead to overdose or dependence, making early intervention and comprehensive treatment critical for saving lives.
So, what is heroin exactly? How does it impact the body and mind? Below, we take a closer look.
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What is Heroin Exactly?
Heroin, also known as diacetylmorphine2, is a powerful opioid drug synthesized from morphine, which is extracted from the seed pods of opium poppy plants3. This substance was first created in 1874 by C.R. Alder Wright through a process of acetylation of morphine.
Heroin typically appears in two main forms, including as a powder (white or brown, depending on purity) or as “black tar heroin”—a dark brown or black sticky substance4. The drug can be administered through multiple routes, such as injection (intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously), smoking, or snorting, with injection providing the most rapid onset of effects5.
When consumed, heroin provides users with a sudden wave of pleasure and euphoria by rapidly binding to opioid receptors in the brain6. This quick delivery is what makes this drug particularly addictive, since the intensity and speed of the high reinforce continued use.
What does Heroin Smell and Taste Like
In its purest form, heroin is odorless. But street heroin typically has a distinctive vinegar-like smell that intensifies with less refinement. It’s also typically bitter and acidic. However, when smoked, some users report it tasting somewhat sweet, with descriptions ranging from “stale cotton candy” to “burnt brown sugar” or having a metallic, chemical quality similar to rubbing alcohol.
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How Heroin Affects the Body & Brain
When heroin enters the brain, it is converted to morphine and rapidly binds to opioid receptors, which are involved in pain perception and reward. Users typically experience an intense surge of pleasure or “rush.” This is because the binding of the drug to opioid receptors triggers a flood of dopamine in the brain, creating the euphoric effects that make the drug so addictive.
The euphoric rush is typically accompanied by a warm flush of the skin, a dry mouth, and a heavy feeling in the extremities7. As a central nervous system depressant, heroin slows down brain function, particularly the control of breathing8.
After the initial effects, users typically become drowsy for several hours—mental function becomes clouded, heart rate slows, and breathing is severely depressed, sometimes to the point that it’s life-threatening.
Negative effects aren’t restricted to long-term use either. Short-term effects include nausea, vomiting, severe itching, and impaired cognitive function. The drug’s action in the brain stem (which controls automatic functions) further slows breathing and heart rate, which may increase the risk of fatal overdose.
Long-term heroin use further causes significant changes to brain structure and function. It can damage blood vessels, increase the risk of infectious diseases (particularly through needle sharing), and lead to collapsed veins, bacterial infections, liver and kidney disease, and various types of pneumonia. The chronic presence of heroin in the body also alters brain chemistry to the point where the brain produces fewer natural opioids. In turn, this leads to dependency, which means that painful withdrawal symptoms may happen when an individual tries to discontinue use.
Why is Heroin Addictive?
Heroin is addictive due to the release of dopamine in the brain, leading to an intense rush of pleasure. Over time, users need more of the drug to feel the same effects, leading to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms (like body aches, vomiting, and insomnia).
This cycle—chasing the high and avoiding the crash—makes heroin extremely hard to quit without support. Many people also struggle with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD, which can worsen addiction or make recovery more difficult.
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Can Heroin Addiction Be Treated?
In short, yes. Recovery from heroin, however, requires a desire to change. From there, successful treatment should involve a comprehensive, holistic approach that addresses both the physical dependence and the emotional root causes of addiction. This may include medical detox, various therapies, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), peer support, and long-term relapse prevention.
Ultimately, healing happens with awareness, compassion, and the courage to seek help—and no one should have to do it alone. At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), our team is here to help guide you toward a healthier and happier life. Whether you or a loved one is struggling with a heroin addiction, there’s no shame in asking for help. Call our caring and compassionate team today at 804-635-3746.
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