Heroin

Heroin (medical name diamorphine) is one of a group of drugs called ‘opiates’ which are derived from the opium poppy. Opium is the dried milk of the opium poppy which contains morphine and codeine, both effective painkillers. Heroin is made from morphine and is a white colour in its pure form although street heroin is normally brown. Heroin can be liquefied and injected, smoked (‘chasing’) or sniffed.

The effects

• Slows your body down
• Minimises pain
• Induces a buzz or rush a few minutes after taking it
• Lessens anxiety

The risks

• Excessive doses can produce stupor and coma or death from respiratory failure
• Initial use can bring on vomiting or nausea
• Physical dependence can result from regular use
• Withdrawal produces unpleasant flu-like symptoms, aches, tremor, sweating, chills and muscular spasms.
• Detoxification lasts 7-10 days but feelings of weakness and illness may last longer.
• Viral-infections including hepatitis and HIV
• Chronic constipation and irregular periods
• Decreased resistance to infections
• Damaged veins, heart and lung disorders
• Opiate withdrawal during pregnancy can be dangerous for the baby and newborns may suffer withdrawal symptoms after birth