Heroin and Its Effects

Heroin and its effects

Heroin first was synthesized in 1874 and is a derivative of morphine, which is a natural substance extracted from certain poppy plants. In 1898 it was distributed as a medical pain killer it was used a lot in the 1900s until it became a controlled substance in 1914 under the Harrison Narcotic Act.

Heroin is considered highly addictive and is the most abused opiate.

Heroin can come in various forms, pure heroin is white with a bad taste. Heroin can come in colors ranging from white to dark brown. Different colors are caused by impurities and the manufacturing process.

Heroin can be injected, smoked or snorted. Injecting it produces the greatest intensity and the fastest effects. Effects are usually felt in 7 to 8 seconds but, smoking or sniffing heroin takes longer more like 10 to 15 minutes. Smoking and Sniffing heroin has grown in popularity because of the concern for sharing needles. After ingestion, heroin makes its way into the brain. When heroin is in the brain it converts to morphine and combines rapidly with the opioid receptors. Users usually feel a rush or surge of pleasure.