Whether you use heroin or know someone who does, you should understand the following facts about heroin. Our aim with this article is to prevent you from becoming another victim of heroin-related consequences.
Across the country, heroin use has increased to crisis levels in recent years, and overdoses are on the rise. Most Americans are aware that heroin is a dangerous and highly addictive drug. But, that hasn’t stopped many of them from using the drug and suffering the negative effects of heroin addiction.
Think about it this way. If you were buying a car, you’d ask dozens of questions about the vehicle because you want to be an informed consumer and make a good decision. So, you should apply that same logic when it comes to experimenting with drugs.
You shouldn’t assume a drug is safe just because a lot of people use it and survive. Knowing these facts about heroin will hopefully discourage you from using it.
Heroin is a narcotic/opiate drug that is classified as a Schedule I drug by the CSA, meaning it has no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. People use heroin by inhaling, injecting, or smoking the substance.
The effects of heroin begin within about seven seconds if the drug is injected into a vein. When heroin is smoked or snorted, it may take 10 to 15 minutes before the effects appear. The high may last from 10 to 30 minutes and is followed by sleepiness, lethargy, and apathy.
In addition to relaxation and detachment, heroin users report feeling warmth and reduced anxiety. Heroin is also associated with reduced emotional and physical aches and pains.
According to government survey data, about 80% of heroin users do not become addicted after just one use. Though addiction and dependence are defined differently, it takes more than one use of heroin to develop either.
Many people who use heroin use at least one other substance. The combinations are the cause of most heroin overdoses. Some of the most dangerous combinations include mixing heroin with alcohol, benzodiazepines, and cocaine.
You might also want to beware that heroin can be laced with fentanyl. In many cases, people aren’t aware that the heroin they purchase contains fentanyl. As a result, thousands of Americans have overdosed.
Heroin is a drug hard to quit because of the intense withdrawal symptoms experienced when the drug is discontinued. However, with professional detox, the symptoms will be monitored and can be minimized with medication and other treatments. The most common symptoms experienced during heroin withdrawal include:
Heroin withdrawal can lead to dehydration because of vomiting and diarrhea. Dehydration can lead to problems with heart rate and other bodily functions.
Regardless of the method of ingestion, a heroin overdose can happen quickly. The risk of overdose increases if other drugs or alcohol are present in the body. So, you may be able to save a life if you know these signs of overdose:
If you have naloxone and know how to administer it, don’t hesitate to do so. But, whether you administered naloxone or not, seek medical help immediately. Remember, the chance of surviving a heroin overdose depends on how fast the person gets medical assistance.
Heroin abuse can destroy your health and your life. Let us help you beat this dangerous addiction. We offer an evidence-based treatment program designed specifically to address the unique challenges of heroin addiction.
At Design for Change Recovery, you’ll enjoy a comforting environment and supportive, compassionate staff. Our wide range of treatment options are sure to meet your individual needs.
Contact our Lancaster, CA facility today to learn how we can help you recover from heroin abuse and live a fulfilling, drug-free lifestyle.
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