How Long Is Heroin In Your System?

What Is Heroin?

Heroin is a diamorphine and a semi-synthetic opioid that is derived from the opium poppy plant and made from morphine. It can be injected, snorted, or smoked like methamphetamine and cocaine. Many people actually mix heroin and crack cocaine, a practice referred to as speedballing. Like other opioids, heroin works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain, activating the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These are chemical messengers that allow neurons in the brain to communicate. When these specific ones are activated, a person may experience a sense of euphoria and pleasure. The physical and psychological effects of heroin are what trap users and cause addiction.

The short-term effects of heroin include:

• Intense euphoric feeling
• Flushed skin
• Dry mouth
• Heavy feeling in the arms and legs
• Drowsiness
• Difficulties concentrating
• Decreased heart rate
• Slowed breathing

The long-term effects of heroin include:

• Addiction
• Changes in brain structure
• Deterioration of white brain matter
• Decreased decision-making abilities
• Increased risk of contracting diseases like HIV, AIDS, and hepatitis

Heroin can cause breathing to slow down severely and even stop completely, which could lead to coma and brain damage. Chronic heroin abuse increases the user’s risk of suffering from an overdose, coma, and other health problems. Because of its potency and a high potential for abuse, individuals who develop a heroin use disorder often require formal addiction treatment to recover. At Banyan Treatment Centers, we offer a heroin detox that addresses withdrawal symptoms and alleviates addiction cravings, helping the individual move forward in their recovery.

How Long Do the Effects of Heroin Last? 

The effects of heroin can vary due to its variable potency and the presence of cutting agents. Typically, the initial euphoric rush lasts only a few minutes, with additional effects lingering for up to two hours. Overall,  the effects may wear off within five hours. The duration and intensity of symptoms depend on factors such as dose, frequency of use, and individual differences. 

Heroin addiction can have devastating long-term effects on both physical and mental health. Prolonged heroin use can lead to significant changes in brain structure and function, particularly affecting the brain's white matter. This deterioration can impair decision-making abilities, regulate behavior, and increase the likelihood of developing mental health disorders.

Chronic heroin abuse also increases the risk of severe respiratory issues, which can result in coma or brain damage. The risk of contracting infectious diseases such as HIV, AIDS, and hepatitis is elevated due to the common practice of sharing needles among users. Additionally, heroin's impact on the body's immune system makes individuals more susceptible to infections and other health complications.

The emotional and psychological toll is profound, often leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Individuals struggling with heroin addiction may find it challenging to maintain relationships, employment, and a stable lifestyle. Recovery requires professional treatment, which can provide the necessary support and resources to manage withdrawal symptoms, address underlying mental health issues, and foster long-term sobriety.