Heroin Addiction in Miami FL (877) 804-1531

Heroin is one of the most addictive drugs on the streets today. As such, heroin addiction is a serious problem across the nation. However, with proper knowledge and understanding, heroin addiction is entirely treatable. If you are struggling with a heroin addiction or know someone who is, you are not alone.

At Drug Treatment Centers Miami we can help you find the right rehab facility and program for your issue.

Heroin is a powerfully addictive narcotic illegal drug. It is derived from a well-known legal prescription drug known as morphine. Morphine comes directly from a natural substance found in poppy plant seedpods.

This drug is sold illicitly in numerous forms, which makes it difficult for a person to be able to discern what they are purchasing or consuming, particularly because the drug also goes by numerous names. Pure heroin, as it is known, is a bright white powder. However, in powder form, it can also be black or brown. The most common form of this opiate is a black or brown sticky residue that, because of its consistency and appearance, has garnered the moniker, tar.

Some of the other street names include:

  • Horse
  • Junk
  • Dragon
  • Skag
  • Dope
  • Brown Sugar
  • Mexican Horse
  • Black Pearl

Why Is It So Addictive?

Heroin is so addictive due to the profound effects it has on the body and the brain. When it enters the bloodstream, it attaches itself the receptors in the brain and nervous system that are known as pain receptors. Many of these receptors are located in the brain stem and the reward centers of the brain. This attachment that occurs blocks out the pain that a person would feel if those receptors were activated, slows the function of the operations controlled by the brainstem such as the person's breathing and heart rate, and has the side effect of making a person feel relaxed and calm.

The triggering of the reward center is also a powerful effect on the brain. Because of the potent effect the drug has on the nervous system and brain, continued use of the drug can quickly lead to a chemical dependence because the brain and nervous system will adjust to the presence of the drug in the body and expect it to be there to perform certain operations.

Heroin is generally used through intravenous injection directly into the bloodstream. However, some people do snort or smoke the powder forms of the drug.

Effects of Heroin Abuse

  • Disorientation and confusion
  • Suddenly falling asleep
  • Limbs appear and feel heavy
  • Constricted pupils
  • Lethargy
  • Drastically slowed breathing
  • Low heart rate
  • Poor memory
  • Inability to complete thoughts or engage in conversations
  • Depression
  • Social isolation

Health Effects Associated with Abuse

  • Infections in injection sites
  • Heart failure
  • Endocarditis (bacterial heart infection)
  • Skin infections
  • Sepsis
  • Seizures
  • Sudden death

Addiction Treatment

Because heroin is so powerfully addictive and it can have such a profound effect on the body, it can be a difficult addiction to break. As such, residential treatment is the best option to help a person overcome their heroin addiction. In residential treatment, a person will not have access to the addicted substance (heroin) and will be able to focus completely on their recovery without the chance of relapse.

Additionally, all treatment for a heroin addiction should begin with medical detox. Medical detox is overseen by doctors who can oversee the process to prevent serious withdrawal symptoms and complications. On top of that prescription medications such as Suboxone can be administered during the detox process to help make the detox gradual rather than sudden. This helps to ease discomfort and can keep the body from going into shock.

If you or someone you love is abusing or has become dependent on this dangerous drug, a comprehensive rehab program is necessary. We can help you find the facility for you, call Drug Treatment Centers Miami at (877) 804-1531.

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