Heroin Addiction
Heroin addiction is one of the most harming and destructive addictions in the world. Manufactured from the poppy, heroin is a semi-synthetic form of morphine. It is suggested to be one of the most addictive substances ever created. Ironically, when heroin first came on the market, it was thought to be safer than morphine and even used to treat morphine addiction. The way heroin is consumed could be related to its addiction potential. The quicker the onset and the higher the high, the more addictive a drug can become. This means that while heroin can be taken orally, smoked, or injected; the quick rush from a shot gives users the most powerful (and most addictive) experience.
Effects of Heroin Addiction
Introducing heroin to a human body creates euphoric feelings, which differ depending on the area that the heroin is injected. If heroin is injected intravenously effects are felt within 7 to 8 seconds. Muscular injections are slower with full effects being felt at 5 to 8 minutes. Other routes of administration do not give the sudden rush and users gravitate toward injection as a matter of course. After the rush, users feel a pleasant drowsiness. Users describe it as an incredible feeling of harmony, pleasure, and contentment. For novice users, the euphoria can last 4 to 6 hours and gradually fades. Once tolerance develops the high only lasts 2 to 4 hours and then another injection is needed.
Progression to Physical and Psychological Heroin Addiction
Progression to physical and psychological heroin addiction is quick for some and more gradual for others. Physical addiction symptoms may occur after just a couple of times using the drug. Many users gradually spiral into daily use, either because they are afraid of needles or of becoming hooked. Most times another addict will administer the drug to novice users who then learn the procedure for themselves.