United States Drug Enforcement Administration

Heroin is a highly addictive drug and it is a rapidly acting opioid.

An opiate (narcotic) drug processed from morphine and extracted from certain poppy plants. Heroin comes in a white or brownish powder, or a black sticky substance known as “black tar heroin.” Often “cut” with other drugs or substances such as sugar or powdered milk. User is unaware how much actual heroin is being used, creating likelihood of overdose.

Big H, Black Tar, Chiva, Hell Dust, Horse, Negra, Smack, Thunder

Heroin can be injected, smoked, or sniffed/snorted. High purity heroin is usually snorted or smoked.

Highly addictive. Initial surge of euphoria or “rush,” followed by a twilight state of sleep and wakefulness. Physical symptoms of use include: drowsiness, respiratory depression, constricted pupils, nausea, a warm flushing of the skin, dry mouth, and heavy extremities.

Because heroin users do not know the actual strength of the drug or its true contents, they are at a high risk of overdose or death.

The effects of a heroin overdose are: Slow and shallow breathing, blue lips and fingernails, clammy skin, convulsions, coma, and possible death.