Understanding Heroin Addiction
Heroin is a highly addictive opioid drug derived from morphine, a natural substance found in the opium poppy plant. Its effects include euphoria, drowsiness, and mental clouding. Heroin is illegally manufactured and associated with physiological dependence and addiction development. According to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 0.4% (1 million people) aged 12 and older used heroin in the past year, while 0.3% (900,000 people) in the same age group had a heroin use disorder during that period.
The Addictive Nature of Heroin
Heroin’s addictive properties stem from its ability to activate the brain’s reward system, leading to a release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reinforcement. This initial euphoric experience can quickly lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. Continued use can result in physical and psychological dependence, making it challenging to quit without professional help from a heroin addiction treatment center.