What Are the Different Types of Heroin?
Heroin is a powerful, illegal opioid drug made from morphine. It commonly appears as a white or brown powder, or as a sticky black substance known as black tar heroin. Street names for heroin include:
- Dope
- Smack
- H
- Junk
- Brown sugar
- Black tar
Heroin can be injected, snorted, or smoked — and it’s often laced with dangerous substances like fentanyl, increasing overdose risk.
How Does Heroin Make You Feel?
Heroin creates a powerful rush of euphoria, followed by a state of drowsy relaxation and pain relief. Users often describe it as a warm, calming sensation. However, it quickly leads to tolerance, physical dependence, and a cycle of intense cravings and withdrawal.
How Long Do the Effects of Heroin Last?
The high from heroin typically lasts 4–6 hours. However, withdrawal symptoms can begin as soon as 6–12 hours after the last use. The crash often includes anxiety, body aches, nausea, and restlessness, pushing users to seek another dose quickly.
Is Heroin Addictive?
Yes — heroin is one of the most addictive substances. It alters brain chemistry and creates both a physical and psychological dependency. Many people find it nearly impossible to stop using heroin without professional detox and support.
Is Heroin Dangerous?
Heroin is extremely dangerous and often deadly. It depresses the central nervous system and slows breathing, which can lead to fatal overdose — especially when mixed with fentanyl or alcohol. Other dangers include:
- Respiratory failure
- Collapsed veins and infection (from injection)
- Heart infections
- Liver and kidney disease
- Overdose and death
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Heroin Use?
Long-term heroin use can cause devastating physical, mental, and social consequences, including:
- Chronic constipation and gastrointestinal issues
- Mental health disorders like depression and anxiety
- Hormonal imbalances and sexual dysfunction
- Memory loss and cognitive decline
- Legal trouble and broken relationships
- Homelessness, job loss, and overdose risk
Signs & Symptoms of Heroin Addiction
Recognizing heroin addiction early can save a life. Common warning signs include:
- Track marks or bruises on arms or legs
- Sudden weight loss and poor hygiene
- Nodding off or extreme drowsiness
- Missing work, school, or family obligations
- Intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Lying, stealing, or other risky behaviors
- Inability to stop despite negative consequences
Benefits of a Heroin Detox Program
Heroin detox is the essential first step toward freedom. Trying to quit on your own can be painful and dangerous. At Orange County Detox Center, our heroin detox program offers:
- 24/7 medical monitoring by experienced staff
- Medication-assisted comfort to reduce withdrawal symptoms
- Support for cravings, anxiety, and depression
- Private, peaceful detox environment
- A plan for what comes next — inpatient rehab, outpatient, or aftercare
Detox gives your body and mind a chance to reset — so you can begin healing with clarity and support.
Where Can I Find Help for Heroin Addiction?
If you or someone you care about is struggling with heroin use, you don’t have to face it alone. At Orange County Detox Center, we specialize in medically supervised heroin detox to help you get through withdrawal safely and start your recovery journey with strength.
We’re located at 3909 Teakwood Street in Santa Ana, CA, and we’re here 24/7 to answer your questions, verify insurance, and offer hope when you need it most.
Take the first step toward a heroin-free future — your healing starts here.