HEROIN
aka Smack, Hammer, Go slow, H, Horse, Harry Dope, Speed Ball
(when mixed with amphetamines)
Heroin is a semi-synthetic opiate derived from morphine
extracted from the opium poppy and has very useful
analgesic properties. Although a very safe drug for
recreational use there is potential for addiction and
an overdose can be fatal. The drug is usually diluted
with a range of other powders, therefore purity is
often unknown. When using therefore try a small amount
first to determine the strength of the drug.
CONSUMPTION:
Available sometimes as crystals but usually as a white
crystalline powder, soluble in water. Coloured
preparations reflect different contaminants present.
Heroin can be snorted, swallowed, injected
intravenously or into muscle, smoked and taken as a
suppository.
EFFECTS:
The onset of the effects can be rapid, especially if
injected, can last 3-4 hours, and will vary for each
person due to the quality of the heroin, body size and
tolerance, mood and the reaction with other drugs.
EFFECTS WHILE HIGH:
MIND:
A sense of floating
A feeling of euphoria
Increased feeling of being relaxed and at ease
Release from all cares
Feeling empathetic and connected with other
people.
BODY:
Feeling very relaxed
Talkative
Pupils become smaller
Blurred vision
No feeling of pain
Shallow breathing
Constipation
Nausea
Vomiting
Itchiness
Loss of appetite.
SEXUAL RESPONSE:
It is generally held that heroin reduces sexual drive,
and prevents orgasm. However there is an increased
desire for intimacy. Some men report that an erection
can occur with no ejaculation within the first 3-4
hours after a hit, and then an ability to have multiple
ejaculations after that period.
EFFECTS COMING DOWN AND AFTER:
MIND:
Feelings of anxiety
Depression
Relaxation.
BODY:
Fatigue
Nausea
Headaches
Dehydration
Constipation
Dry mouth.
KEEPING HEALTHY:
Rest
Meditate or listen to a relaxation tape after
taking heroin
Eat high fibre food to help with constipation
Have a massage
Take multi-vitamin tablets
Talk, shop, gossip, have coffee, visit an art
gallery with loving friends.
Once difficulty with heroin is that contaminated
material is often injected. If you have been using
heroin regularly over a number of weeks, some people
report a sense of "hanging out" if use is suddenly
stopped. Reducing gradually the amount of heroin used
can lessen the effects of " hanging out".
WITHDRAWAL:
Heroin dependence both physical and psychological, can
occur with regular use. Withdrawal will develop within
12 hours of ceasing regular use. Withdrawal symptoms
will be experienced within 36-72 hours.
SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:
Chills and shivering
Excessive sweating
Gooseflesh is prominent
Irritability
Insomnia
Muscle cramps, aches
Restlessness
Diarrhoea
Infection of the nose.
If symptoms of withdrawal are observed seek medical
attention. Ring a detoxification centre, drug referral
centre, or user organisation for advice.
IMPLICATIONS FOR HIV POSITIVE PEOPLE:
Difficulties arise for HIV positive people when
nutrition and rest are insufficient to maintain a
competent immune system.
Eat as much as possible over the period to replace the
body's stored energy resources. Get sleep, and fluids,
use water instead of alcohol.
Dry mouth due to lack of saliva can hasten tooth decay.
Little is known about possible interactions with anti
viral drugs or the impact on the immune system.
now you know. go get some!
© 1997 jm-percy@wpg.uwe.ac.uk
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