When someone uses heroin, it quickly enters the brain and binds to opioid receptors. These receptors are involved in feelings of pain and pleasure, as well as controlling heart rate, sleeping and breathing. The binding of heroin to these receptors disrupts normal brain function, leading to alterations in mood and behavior that can be difficult to reverse. Over time, this can result in significant cognitive impairment, affecting a person’s ability to think clearly and make decisions.

Immediate Effects of Heroin Use

The immediate effects of heroin use include a rush of euphoria, followed by a state of drowsiness. This is because heroin converts to morphine in the brain, which binds to the receptors that trigger the release of dopamine—a neurotransmitter that creates feelings of pleasure. This intense euphoria is what makes heroin so addictive, as users often chase this initial high. However, the initial pleasurable effects are short-lived, leading to the rapid onset of negative consequences such as nausea, dry mouth and a heavy feeling in the limbs, which can further impair the capacity to perform everyday tasks.

Consequences of Repeated Heroin Use

Over time, repeated heroin use causes the brain to adapt to the drug, reducing its ability to produce dopamine naturally. This leads to a cycle where the person needs to use more heroin to achieve the same high, which is known as tolerance. This cycle can also lead to physical dependence, where the brain relies on the drug to function normally. Long-term heroin use can cause significant changes in the brain, affecting decision-making, behavior and responses to stress. 

These neurological changes can become ingrained, making it extremely difficult for people to quit using heroin without professional help. As the brain undergoes these changes, users often experience a decrease in their ability to experience pleasure from activities they once enjoyed, leading to a cycle of continued use to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Consequences on the body 

Heroin doesn’t just affect the brain; it also has severe consequences for the body. The physical toll of heroin use can manifest in numerous ways, often exacerbating existing health problems and creating new ones. Understanding these physical effects is key to recognizing the comprehensive nature of heroin addiction and the importance of seeking treatment.

Chronic heroin use can lead to a range of health problems, including:

  • Respiratory issues: Heroin slows breathing, which can lead to respiratory infections or even respiratory failure. Over time, this can result in long-term damage to the lungs, making it difficult to engage in physical activities without experiencing shortness of breath.
  • Heart problems: The drug can cause heart infections and increase the risk of heart attacks. This is often due to the impurities found in street heroin and the lifestyle factors associated with its use, such as poor nutrition and hygiene.
  • Liver and kidney disease: Heroin use can damage these vital organs over time. The liver is particularly vulnerable to the toxic substances used to cut heroin, while the kidneys can be damaged by the breakdown of muscle tissue due to prolonged periods of immobility.
  • Infectious diseases: Sharing needles increases the risk of diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. These infections not only compromise the immune system but can also lead to long-term health complications, further complicating the recovery process.

Heroin Withdrawals

When a person who is dependent on heroin stops using it, they experience withdrawal symptoms. These can include muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting and severe cravings for the drug. The severity of these symptoms often leads people back to heroin use, perpetuating the cycle of addiction. 

Withdrawal symptoms can start as soon as a few hours after the last use and can be extremely uncomfortable, often requiring medical supervision to manage. The psychological aspect of withdrawal, including anxiety and depression, can also be overwhelming, reinforcing the need for comprehensive treatment that addresses both physical and mental health needs.

Dangers of Heroin Use

The dangers of heroin use extend beyond its physical and mental health effects. Heroin is often mixed with other substances, which can increase the risk of overdose. In recent years, the presence of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, in heroin has been linked to a rise in overdose deaths. Fentanyl is significantly more potent than heroin, and even a small amount can be lethal, making the risk of accidental overdose much higher.

Heroin and Overdoses

An overdose occurs when a person takes a toxic amount of heroin, suppressing the body’s ability to breathe. Signs of a heroin overdose include shallow breathing, blue lips and fingernails and unconsciousness. An overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Quick response with naloxone, an opioid antagonist, can reverse the effects of an overdose if administered in time. However, not all overdoses occur in situations where help is readily available, underscoring the importance of education and access to naloxone for individuals and communities at risk.

Treatment for Heroin Use 

For those struggling with heroin addiction, treatment is essential. Treatment can help people manage withdrawal symptoms, understand the root causes of their addiction and develop coping strategies for recovery. A comprehensive treatment plan typically involves a combination of medical, psychological and social interventions tailored to the individual’s specific needs.

There are several effective heroin addiction treatment options available:

  1. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): This combines medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone with counseling and behavioral therapies. These medications help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to focus on therapy and recovery.
  2. Behavioral Therapies: These therapies help individuals change their attitudes and behaviors related to drug use and increase healthy life skills. Cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management and motivational interviewing are commonly used approaches that have shown success in treating heroin addiction.
  3. Support Groups: Groups such as Narcotics Anonymous provide a supportive community and shared experiences that can be invaluable during recovery. These groups offer a sense of belonging and accountability, which can be critical for maintaining long-term sobriety.

Family support can be a significant factor in successful recovery. Understanding the challenges of addiction and providing a non-judgmental, supportive environment can help your loved one feel less isolated and more motivated to seek treatment. Families can play a pivotal role in the recovery process by participating in family therapy sessions, learning about addiction and helping to create a stable and supportive home environment. 

Get Outpatient Treatment for Heroin Addiction 

Understanding the long-term effects of heroin use is the first step in addressing addiction. Heroin’s impact on the brain and body can be severe, but with the right treatment and support, recovery is possible. Whether you’re struggling with addiction yourself or supporting a loved one, it’s important to seek professional help and use available resources.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and needs outpatient help, the New Vista Outpatient Center is here for you. Call us today at 866-970-5330 to see what we can do for you or learn more about our program.