Slang
Brown, Smack, Gear, Nasty and “H”
Appearance
Usually found in a fine powder form which is light brown in colour.
How Taken
Commonly smoked off foil – “Chasing the Dragon” is also injected but can be snorted.
Effects
Heroin is a depressant type drug and is an extremely effective painkiller. Unfortunately the significant risk of physical dependency and tolerance to the drug developing has restricted its medical uses. Following the initial euphoria then users feel a period of tranquillity providing the user with a feeling of well-being, temperance and happiness lasting several hours.
Health Risks
Regular users of heroin can swiftly develop a physical and psychological dependency to the drug. As use of the drug increases then increasing amounts are needed to maintain the effects as the body develops a tolerance. Overdoses from heroin are common, particularly if used in conjunction with other depressant type drugs or alcohol or following periods of abstinence. Injecting heroin users can also increase the risk of blood borne viruses such as hepatitis and HIV.