Derived from the naturally-occurring opioid morphine, heroin is a powerful painkiller that is one of the most dangerous and highly addictive drugs on the planet. Overall, it is 100% illegal in the United States, but is offered in limited amounts at heroin treatment centers across Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. Simply put, the use of this drug can lead to dangerous overdoses and drug interactions and can put victims at a high risk of developing deadly illnesses like HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C (due to unclean needles). So, how long does this powerful painkiller stay in the human body and what are the risks during this time? Let’s take a closer look and find out more information.
Interactions with the Body
Street heroin is manufactured through illegal sources and can contain various levels of pure heroin and other mixtures (including fentanyl). People take this drug in a variety of ways, from smoking to the more commonly known method of injection, but the effects can still take a quick hold of victims. Based on the administered dose, the addict will feel the full rush of the drug in 45 seconds to 1 minute, and long-term effects will peak at 1 to 2 hours. Although the side effects will begin to dwindle at 3 to 5 hours, the heroin-induced euphoria can last for much longer.
Overall, heroin has a 2 to 6-minute half-life, and the body processes it as morphine and 6-acetylmorphine. In total, 4 to 5 half-lives must be endured before the drug is pushed through the system and has left the body.
High Risk of Drug Interaction
While in the body, heroin will mix with other drugs and medications, which can ultimately result in an overdose. Street heroin can contain 11% to 72% purity, depending on the dealer, and can be cut with ketamine, cocaine, amphetamines, alprazolam, and other potent substances. Likewise, if an addict takes repetitive doses of heroin in a single sitting to strengthen a high, they may die from an overdose, as well.
Seeking Treatment for Heroin Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
