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Heroin can be injected, sniffed, or smoked

Heroin is highly addicting and can lead to agonizing withdrawal symptoms

Morphine, found in the seeds of opium poppies

Heroin can appear as a white or brown powder or a black sticky substance known as black tar heroin.

Heroin is a central nervous system depressant, slowing down brain activity and causing a sedative effect.

Heroin inhibits GABA, resulting in the activation of dopamine in the brain.

Heroin binds to and activates mu-opioid receptors (MORs) in the brain.

Activation of mu-opioid receptors by heroin stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.

Heroin, as an agonist drug, causes the brain to stop responding to normal stimuli, leading to reduced natural production of pleasure-inducing neurotransmitters.

Heroin's role as an agonist drug, structurally similar to the body's natural agonists, leads to the body's dependence on the drug and a reduced ability to produce natural pleasure responses.

Heroin use, in combination with poor health, can lead to lung complications such as pneumonia and tuberculosis.

Sharing equipment can lead to infections with hepatitis B and C, HIV, and other bloodborne pathogens among heroin users.

Snorting heroin can cause damage to the mucosal tissue in the nose and may result in perforation of the nasal septum.

Physiological effects of heroin use include constricted pupils, lethargy, a warm skin flush, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, severe itching, drowsiness, and clouded mental functions.

Chronic injection of heroin can lead to scarred or collapsed veins, bacterial infections in blood vessels and heart valves, and soft-tissue infections.

Heroin induces intense feelings of euphoria and pleasure, making it highly alluring for users.

The "nodding" sensation is when heroin users alternate between wakefulness and drowsiness as they experience relaxation and sedation.

Chronic heroin use can impair cognitive functions, including problem-solving, decision-making, and judgment, potentially leading to risky behaviors.

During heroin withdrawal, individuals may experience cognitive deficits, including memory problems, concentration difficulties, and impaired problem-solving, as the brain readjusts to functioning without the drug.

Heroin use can make it challenging for individuals to experience pleasure without the drug, potentially leading to anxiety and paranoia.

Families experience strained relationships, disrupted dynamics, and emotional and financial turmoil due to heroin addiction.

Stigmatization and discrimination often make it harder for those with heroin addiction to seek help and reintegrate into society.

Heroin addiction can lead individuals to engage in criminal activities such as theft and drug trafficking, resulting in legal issues and incarceration.

Heroin addiction often leads to struggles in maintaining employment and education, resulting in financial instability.

Heroin addiction increases the risk of infectious diseases, such as hepatitis and HIV, impacting not only individuals but also the broader community, contributing to the public health burden.