Among the types of drugs sold illegally, heroin is among the most dangerous and most addictive. It's often sold in the form of white powder, though a pure white color is uncommon, and is usually seen with traces of brown color because of impurities. Heroin is ingested in various ways, including injection, snorting, or smoking.

Effects of Heroin Use

There is a euphoria felt within seconds of injecting heroin, and this euphoria is often called "rush." After the rush, the user may experience a feeling of dryness in the mouth, and the skin may feel flushed. The user then goes into alternate states of being fully awake and drowsy. Heroin is notoriously addictive. In time, the body becomes "used to it," and more and more amounts of heroin are required to feel the euphoria. Obviously, this will cause financial ruin to the user, especially if he keeps on buying heroin.

Health Risks of Heroin Abuse

Direct injection is a popular method of ingesting heroin since euphoria is immediately felt when doing this. However, those who do this are at risk of developing HIV and other diseases because of using old or shared needles. There is also the possibility of acquiring damage in the veins and blood vessels. The two former symptoms, along with liver damage, are caused by long-term heroin use.

After Using Heroin

Withdrawal symptoms already develop hours after using heroin. The withdrawal symptoms include pain in the muscles, repeated vomiting, and extreme drug cravings.

Heroin Addiction Treatment

Treatment is often only possible through a combined effort of friends and family who will stage an intervention. Moreover, prolonged drug rehab and medications countering the physical symptoms of addiction can also be of great help. The longer one has been using heroin, the harder it is to prevent complications and successfully complete treatment.