Guide Note
Heroin addiction occurs when a person is so used to taking heroin that he or she must take it on a regular basis in order to function normally. Heroin is an opiate, one of many drugs derived from the Opium poppy. It is also a nervous system depressant. Frequent use of heroin causes physical, psychological and biochemical changes in the body that makes the person dependent on the drug. This dependence on the drug makes it very difficult for an addict to stop using heroin.
Fast Facts
- Symptoms: Slurred speech, heavy eyelids, small pupils, drowsiness
- Chronic use may lead to liver and kidney disease, heart and lung damage and bacterial infections
- Can be injected, eaten, inhaled, snorted
- Can contract HIV or Hepatitis from needle sharing
Withdrawal and treatment
Heroin withdrawal causes symptoms such as sweating, nausea, and tremors. Generally, a substitute medication such as methadone or Buprenorphine is administered to the patient to help ease withdrawal. Removing heroin from a patient's system is only the first step in a drug treatment program. For lasting success, a long-term treatment program, such as a live-in treatment facility or regular outpatient care, is necessary.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a doctor or other competent medical professional for more information on heroin addiction.
