Heroin, known on the streets as junk, smack, ska and H, is a very powerful drug that leaves a lot of addicts in its wake. It is very easy to become addicted to and causes problems for many people that take it.  Heroin comes in the form of either brown or white powder. Individuals that take it report euphoric feelings. This stage is typically followed by that individual coming in and out consciousness.  

Heroin can be lethal. People do over dose on it. It is considered most dangerous when injected.  Heroin is a derivative of morphine which comes from the opium poppy plant. It can be taken a number ways. Individuals can smoke it, snort it or inject it.

Persons who take heroin get a rush from the drug. Their arms and legs may feel heavy. They might experience dry mouth and flushing. Their mental capacities are compromised. While high on heroin, individuals may have trouble thinking clearly.

Users often easily develop a dependence on heroin both physically and psychologically.  Persons who take heroin on a regular basis will find that they have to take greater amounts of the drug in order to feel the same highs that they felt previously.

Heroin is a drug that 23% of those that use either become addicts or develop a dependence on it. Besides death, other threats include hepatitis and HIV. This is the often due to heroin users sharing needles which may contain the blood of someone who is infected by either virus. Collapsed veins, heart valve and lining infections, disease of the liver and kidneys are also possible.

Individuals attempting to quit heroin will experience a number of withdrawal symptoms, all which can be very serious and uncomfortable. They usually last for about one week.  When it all possible it is best to get outside help when attempting to quit heroin. This is partly because though it doesn't happen incredibly often, a person that stops taking heroin cold turkey is at risk for serious health problems and possibly even death. However, in general, getting off of your heroin poses less of a danger physically then other types of drugs.

A drug rehabilitation center might treat an individual with a heroin addiction using behavioral cognitive therapy.  They may also receive medications. These medications are typically designed to lessen the withdrawal symptoms and also to ensure that the person is able to quit and not have any adverse health reactions.  Buprenorphine and Clonidine are two common medications given to those attempting to quite heroin.  Methadone is another.

On a positive note, the rate of heroin use has been decreasing.  Between the years, 2007 and 2008 it dropped by 11%, according to the National survey on Drug Use and Health.