The Hard Facts On Drugs - Heroin (Diacetylmorphine)

Heroin or Diacetylmorphine is a direct descendent of the opium poppy; first cultivated in 3400 BC, and is used today as a painkiller and a recreational drug. Heroin was first produced in 1874 in the United Kingdom, and is a semi-synthetic opiate synthesized from morphine.n It was first marketed as a non-addictive cough suppressant and morphine substitute between the years 1898 and 1910. In fact, a pharmaceutical company named Bayer advertised Heroin as an actual cure for a morphine addiction. Unfortunately, it was later discovered that once heroin entered the body it quickly metabolized into morphine.n The recreation usage of heroin will bring a user relaxation and a sudden rush of euphoria. Unfortunately, these reactions slowly diminish as the users tolerance increases. Methods of use are, intravenous, snorting and smoking. The overall effect depends on the form of use. When snorting you can have a high within three to five minutes; smoking is a almost immediate high, and using intravenous, the high comes within 30 seconds. The effects are as follows:nn

• Drowsiness & Disorientationnn
• Deliriumnn
• Shallow breathingnn
• Respiratory depressionnn
• Dry mouthnn
• Nausea & vomitingnn
• Physical & psychological dependencynn
• Confusion & Euphorian

nWhen heroin is used intravenous it can only be dissolved in water mixed with an acid (citric acid powder or lemon juice), and then heated. Risks of this include the following:n

• Severe addiction and physical dependencyn n
• HIV and or Hepatitisnn
• Abscesses and infectionnn
• Collapsed veins due to the acidnn
• Overdose and deathn

nnnWith heroin becoming an ever-growing problem worldwide, it is extremely important the proper steps are taken to treat heroin addiction. People of all walks of life are becoming severely addicted to this drug, and the problem is only increasing. For more information on how to overcome heroin addiction, contact Narconon right away. Calln1-877-782-7409nToll FreenOr click here to contact us online.nn© 2009 Narconon Trois-Rivières. All Rights Reserved. NARCONON is a trademark and service mark owned by Association for Better Living and Education and is used with its permission.