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January 31st, 2025
Heroin addiction
Heroin addiction has long been a prevalent and devastating issue, affecting individuals, families, and communities worldwide. It is a complex disorder that poses significant challenges to those entangled in its grip.
We will delve into the dark realities of heroin addiction, exploring its causes, effects, and signs to look out for.
What is heroin?
Heroin, derived from morphine, is an illegal opioid drug synthesised from the opium poppy plant that you can sort, swallow, smoke or inject. Heroin has a powerful and rapid impact on the brain, producing intense feelings of euphoria and relaxation. However, these effects are short-lived, leading individuals to seek repeated doses to maintain the desired high. Unfortunately, what may begin as occasional recreational use can rapidly escalate into a full-blown addiction, characterised by a compulsive need to seek and use the drug.
What is heroin addiction?
Heroin addiction refers to chronic and compulsive dependence on the drug. Heroin addiction develops as a result of the drug’s impact on the brain’s reward system. When heroin enters the body, it rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier and binds to opioid receptors, which are concentrated in areas associated with pleasure and reward. This interaction floods the brain with dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in feelings of pleasure and reinforcement. Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to the presence of heroin and adjusts its natural chemistry to accommodate its effects. As heroin use continues, tolerance develops, meaning higher doses of heroin are needed to achieve the same level of euphoria. This cycle of increasing drug use sustains addiction.
Physical dependence also develops, leading to withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not consumed. Withdrawal symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and may include intense cravings, body aches, nausea, insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
