Heroin Addiction

Heroin (diacetylmorphine) is a powerful narcotic opioid which is synthesized from Morphine which is a natural narcotic derived from the opium poppy. This makes Heroin a semi-synthetic opioid drug, and is known for giving the user a euphoric high. Similar to other narcotics, this drug makes the person have a general sense of well being. The danger occurs due to the high prevelence of needle sharing among hardcore users which is a major risk factor for HIV, Hepatitis B, and C as well as other bloodborne pathogens.

• The average heroin addict spends $200.00 a day to support their addiction
• It has been estimated that almost one third of all HIV cases are caused by sharing needles, mostly for drugs such as heroin
• According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in the late 90s, the annual number of new heroin users rose to a level not seen in over 20 years. In the mid 70s, there were nearly 250,000 new heroin users. There was a slower period between the mid 80s until the mid 90s. From 1995-2001, the number of new heroin users was consistently greater than 100,000.
• It is estimated that almost 60% of heroin users are dependent on the drug. Most people who use the drug do so with a partner but are found alone at the time of death.