What’s on this page

• What is Heroin?

• Is Heroin Addictive?

• Symptoms of Heroin Addiction

• Heroin Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms

• Treatment Options For Heroin Addiction

• FAQs

What is Heroin?

Heroin is an opioid drug made from morphine, a natural substance taken from the seed pod of various opium poppy plants.

Heroin is an illegal, highly addictive drug processed from morphine, a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seed pod of certain varieties of poppy plants.

Heroin is a very addictive drug made from morphine, a psychoactive (mind-altering) substance taken from the resin of the seed pod of the opium poppy plant. Heroin’s colour and look depend on how it is made and what else it may be mixed with. It can be white or brown powder, or a black, sticky substance called “black tar heroin.” It can be mixed with water and injected with a needle. Heroin can also be smoked or snorted up the nose. All of these ways of taking heroin send it to the brain very quickly. This makes it very addictive.

Is Heroin Addictive?

Yes, heroin is very addictive.

Heroin enters the brain quickly, causing a fast, intense high. Using heroin repeatedly can cause people to develop tolerance to the drug; this means they need to take more and more of it to get the same effect. Eventually, heroin addicts may need to keep taking the drug just to feel normal. For those who use heroin over and over again, addiction is more likely. Once a person becomes addicted to heroin, seeking and using the drug often becomes the main goal guiding their daily behaviour.

Symptoms of Heroin Addiction

Common signs and symptoms of heroin addiction include:

• Strong cravings for the drug

• Inability to control or reduce use

• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home

• Withdrawal from social activities

• Continued use despite negative consequences

• Physical signs such as weight loss, needle marks, or frequent nosebleeds

• Mood swings, depression, or anxiety

Heroin Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone addicted to heroin stops using the drug, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can include:

• Restlessness

• Muscle and bone pain

• Insomnia

• Diarrhoea and vomiting

• Cold flashes with goosebumps

• Uncontrollable leg movements

• Severe cravings

These symptoms can begin as early as a few hours after the last dose and can last for several days.

Treatment Options For Heroin Addiction

There are several effective treatment options for heroin addiction:

• Detoxification: Medical detox helps manage withdrawal symptoms in a safe environment.

• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

• Behavioural Therapies: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and contingency management can help modify drug-use behaviours and manage triggers.

• Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab: Structured programs provide support, therapy, and education to help individuals recover.

• Support Groups: Groups like Narcotics Anonymous offer peer support and shared experiences.

FAQs

Q: Can heroin addiction be treated successfully?

A: Yes, with the right treatment plan, individuals can recover from heroin addiction and lead fulfilling lives.

Q: How long does heroin withdrawal last?

A: Withdrawal symptoms typically peak within 24–48 hours after the last dose and subside after about a week. However, some symptoms may persist longer.

Q: Is relapse common during recovery?

A: Relapse can occur, but it doesn’t mean treatment has failed. Ongoing support and therapy can help prevent and manage relapses.