Heroin is a very addictive and enslaving opioid drug , and its usage has repercussions and consequences which extend far beyond the individual user of this opioid. The medical effects as well as social consequences and outcomes of heroin drug use are hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, fetal effects, criminal offenses, physical violence, and disruptions in families, workplace environments and educational environments — have a devastating and disastrous impact on modern society and communities and cost vast amounts of dollars (billions) each and every year.
Despite the fact that heroin use within the general population is rather low, the numbers of individuals beginning to use the opioid heroin have been gradually increasing since 2006. This may possibly be due in part to a shift from abuse of doctor prescribed painkillers or pain relievers to heroin as a readily available, less expensive alternative, and also the misperception that highly pure heroin is actually safer than much less pure forms simply because it does not have to be injected.
Like a number of other chronic diseases and illnesses, addiction and dependence on opioids can be treated. Medications are readily available to treat heroin addiction and dependency while decreasing drug cravings and withdrawal signs and symptoms, bettering the chances of achieving abstinence. There are right now a diverseness of medications that can be tailored to an individual’s recovery requirements while taking into consideration co-occurring health conditions and problems. Medication combined along with behavioral therapy and treatments is especially effective, offering hope and promise to men and women who are afflicted by and suffering from heroin addiction and for all those around them.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) have created information to supply an overview of heroin use and its consequences and outcomes as well as treatment options, choices and possibilities that are available for those struggling with and experiencing heroin addiction. Hopefully the information on heroin addiction will help, guide, assist, and inform readers concerning the harmful and dangerous effects associated with heroin use as well as assist in prevention and avoidance and also treatment and therapy efforts.