Last updated : December 23, 2024
In the medical context, heroin, in the form of opiates, is often prescribed for diminishing pain; however, it is also abused by many due to its recreational effects such as muscle relaxation, sedation, and euphoria. As with many other depressants, Heroin can become very addictive. The effect of this drug can vary from one person to another. The dosage amount, previous usage, size, and height all play a factor in how the body is affected. It is also important to note that the strength and quality of the Heroin can vary as well.
There is no safe drug use. All drugs carry some type of risk, even drugs prescribed by a physician. Therefore, it is important that all potential risk are considered when taking any type of drug. Always consult with a physician. Some of the effects caused by Heroin are:
Immediate Effects
Depending on how this drug is taken, the effects can be felt in as little as seven seconds when injecting or 10 minutes when snorting or smoking. These effects can last for about 3 to 5 hours.
Low to Moderate Dose
When taking Heroin in a low to moderate dose, many individuals have reported the following: a feeling of pleasure, confusion, pain relief, a decrease in sexual urges, a sense of well-being, drowsiness, dry mouth, slow or slurred speech, reduced appetite, a decrease in heart rate, a decrease in blood pressure, reduced appetite, vomiting and nausea.
Higher Dose
Higher doses of Heroin can lead to an overdose. An overdose is an indication that the individual’s body cannot cope with its current dose of heroin. If a person does not know the strength and purity level of the Heroin, that person is at a greater risk of overdosing.
A higher dosage of Heroin intensifies many of the aforementioned effects, but the individual may also experience the following: impaired concentration, shallow breathing, nausea, vomiting, an increase in itching or sweating, having the urge to urinate but unable to do so, irregular heartbeat, and unconsciousness.
There are some drugs that have the ability to reverse how Heroin affects the body, particularly in cases involving an overdose. When coming off the drug, many people have reported feeling irritable as the drug is leaving their bodies.
Long-term Effects
For individuals who have been using Heroin for a long time, they often experience the following effects: increased level of sadness, constipation, menstrual irregularity, and cognitive impairment. Long-term effects also cause damage to vital organs such as the heart, brain, and lungs.
Depending on the method of use, other long-term effects could occur such as damage to the nasal lining. Frequent injections in the same location can also lead to various infections and damage the veins.
Other Ways Heroin Affects the Body
The mixing of Heroin with prescription drugs can be fatal. In addition, combining Heroin and other stimulant drugs like amphetamines will cause stress on the body. Expected mothers using Heroin can negatively affect the fetus and cause a miscarriage, early labor, or a low birth weight. Using Heroin while pregnant can also result in many other birth defects. Expected mothers should consult with a physician prior to consuming any type of drugs while pregnant. It is also dangerous to drive a motor vehicle while using Heroin, for Heroin causes drowsiness and decrease coordination, ultimately affecting driving ability.
Using Heroin is detrimental to the human body and negatively affects a person’s behavior, health, and cognitive functions. The effects of Heroin can go beyond medical standards, for each person’s body is different and some people may experience side effects different from most individuals. Heroin is a very addictive drug and the assistance of a medical professional is needed to cure the addiction.
