Introduction | Discovery | Chemical Composition
Usage | Historical Significance
Once in the brain, heroin is rapidly metabolized into morphine by removal of the acetyl groups. The morphine molecule then binds with the opioid receptors in the brain and produces the subjective effects of the heroin high. Large doses can make users relaxed and drowsy. Heroin use also causes lack of concentration, suppresses pain, and sometimes induces anxiety and fear. Large doses of heroin can be fatal.
Short-Term Effects
- “Rush”
- Depressed respiration
- Clouded mental functioning
- Nausea and vomiting
- Suppression of pain
- Spontaneous abortion
Long-Term Effects
- Addiction
- Infectious diseases, HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B and C
- Collapsed veins
- Bacterial Infections
- Abscesses
- Infection of heart lining and valves
- Arthritis and other rheumatologic problems