Heroin: The Real Life Effects


by Gabriel J. Adams - Date: 2007-03-12 - Word Count: 502 Share This!

Despite being known as one of the most highly addictive drugs on the market, heroin is still a grim reality plaguing the United States. More than 600,000 people are said to require treatment to suppress their addiction for the drug. Over the years, numerous shifts in the use of heroin has seen more users turning from injecting heroin to snorting or smoking because they believe they will receive a higher concentration of the drug, as well as avoid addiction. Heroin causes a wide range of effects that can be seen throughout both immediate short-term reactions and long-term use. Below, you will learn of the negativity surrounding the use of this powerful and extremely dangerous drug:

Short-Term Effects of Heroin

Once a user injects or inhales heroin, the drug infiltrates the barrier that holds the blood to the brain. It is here that the drug is converted to morphine, which instantly combines with other substances within the body. Those who have a history of abusing heroin will feel a rush of pleasure, which is influenced by how much of the drug is taken and how quickly it enters the brain. The reason why heroin is so addictive is because it reaches the brain in such a short amount of time.

The sensations that come with the usage of heroin are matched with a warm feeling about the skin, dry mouth, intense itching, as well as nausea or vomiting. The limbs may also feel heavy. Once the initial effects have lessened, the abuser may suffer from many hours of drowsiness. The functions of the heart will also slow, as well as their breathing. Since the purity of drugs cannot be accurately assessed on the street, overdosing of heroin is quite common.

Long-Term Effects of Heroin

While the addition that comes with heroin abuse is one of the most damaging long-term effects connected to heroin, there are many other long-term effects to consider. A vicious cycle of using and searching for more drugs becomes one of the main purposes of living for users. The drug is so potent that the brain and behavior patterns of a user become altered.

The higher amount of heroin taken equates to a more intense physical dependency. The body easily adapts to the presence of the drug in the system and will show withdrawal symptoms if the drug is reduced in a short amount of time. A user may then suffer from restlessness, insomnia, vomiting, diarrhea, restless leg movements, and muscle and bone pain. After the last dose of heroin, the worst effects of withdrawal are felt between 24 and 48 hours. These side effects may continue for many months afterwards.

Health Risks

Continued heroin use can lead to an assortment of major health conditions, including fatal overdosing. Spontaneous abortions may occur in pregnant women. Veins may collapse and the chances of acquiring an infectious disease (like HIV or hepatitis) may arise. Infections may develop within the lining of the heart and valves. Abscesses, liver disease and cellulitis are all threats to the health of a heroin user.


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