The Different Types of Heroin

The Various Types of Heroin

Heroin’s molecular formula is C₂₁H₂₃NO_5, but like with many illicit and synthetic drugs, there are different types of heroin depending on the ingredients and the production.² These forms of heroin may look unique, but they often contain a lot of the same ingredients and have similar effects. The types of heroin include brown powder heroin, white powder heroin, black tar heroin, and other heroin drug mixtures. Regardless of the type of heroin someone is abusing, this drug is dangerous, especially with prolonged abuse, and can lead to serious consequences including overdose. Heroin addiction treatment can help users quit before it is too late.

Brown Powder Heroin

Brown powder heroin is the result of the first stage of purification and may also be cut with lactose. It has an appearance similar to sand but can vary in the shade of brown depending on the additives. Brown powder heroin is typically produced in Mexico before being distributed to the United States. Because it is not as refined as some of other types of heroin like white powder heroin, it is often cheaper. Most heroin users will choose to smoke this form of heroin because it does not dissolve easily. Because it is not typically injected, brown powder heroin may be more appealing to novice heroin users.

White Powder Heroin

White powder heroin known as diacetylmorphine hydrochloride is the purest form of heroin, but it may be cut with other substances to increase profit. Sometimes the color may be a little off-white, beige, or even pink depending on the exact ingredients and the processing methods. Typically, the whiter the heroin, the purer it is, but it can still be cut by white powder fillers. White powder heroin is usually produced in Mexico or South America. Because it dissolves quickly, people will inject this type of heroin, but the additives can sometimes cause problems.

Black Tar Heroin

Black tar heroin can look drastically different from brown or white powder heroin. True to its name, black tar heroin typically comes in black chunks and may feel sticky to the touch. It is produced in Mexico and often distributed more to the western United States. Of all the different forms of heroin, black tar heroin is usually much less refined and a lower purity. It also has a different and cheaper production process than other types of heroin, making it less expensive. Injecting black tar heroin can lead to many complications.