Heroin comes in the form of a white or brown crystalline substance that can be powdered.
Commercial opioid medications come in pill and liquid forms.
Most Typical Routes Of Administration:
Nose (snorting powered form)
Lungs (inhaling pipe smoke)
Mouth (swallowing pills)
IV (injection into a vein)
What These Drugs Do (Symptoms Typical Of Intoxication):
Short term effects:
The intense "rush" which most abusers prefer is obtained from intravenous injection
Feeling of well being, euphoria, relaxation, drowsiness and mental confusion
Higher doses and overdose can cause: sleep; very low blood pressure, slowed heart rate and respiration; low body temperature; muscle constriction; cold clammy skin; cyanosis (not enough oxygen in the bloodstream); coma and death.
Physical as well as emotional responses to pain are numbed
Apathy and an inability to concentrate,
Nausea, vomiting, sweating, chills
Slowed pulse, rate of breathing and lowered blood pressure
Long term effects:
Chronic constipation
Impaired vision
Mood swings and instability
As tolerance develops, the user can no longer get the pleasurable effects, but must continue taking the drug to prevent withdrawal.
Pattern of Withdrawal Symptoms:
Symptoms last 10-14 days or even longer
Chills and hot flashes
Sweating
Cramps
Nausea
Tremors
Loss of appetite
Insomnia
Dilated pupils
Watery eyes
Runny nose
Yawning fits
Diarrhea
Panic attacks
Bone aches
Muscle aches
Lethargy
Most Significant Problems:
High possibility of a potentially fatal overdose
Addictive with strong, painful withdrawal symptoms
May possibly contribute to depression or anxiety
How Tested For:
Blood Test (remains positive for approx. 2 days after last dose)
