ABOUT HEROIN

Origin

An opiate, like morphine and OxyContin, heroin was created by scientists
seeking a non-addictive substitute for morphine.

It was prohibited by federal law after scientists learned it was many times
more addictive than morphine.

How it's used

At one time, heroin was almost always injected into a vein, known as
"mainlining," or just under the skin, known as "skin popping." But the more
potent heroin sold on the street today is increasingly sniffed, snorted or
smoked, what users call "chasing the dragon." It can also be taken orally.

Nicknames

Junk, H, Harry, powder, smack, scag, horse, white stuff and sugar.

What it does

Users say heroin produces an intense euphoria, or "rush," followed by a
state of extreme calm that can last up to four hours.

Most users continue on through their everyday tasks, including work or
school, but become all but non-productive. Physiological changes in the
body quickly produce dependence. Without the drug addicts may feel
extremely restless and anxious, experience bone and muscle pain, vomiting
and cold flashes.

A typical dose

Addicts generally use it two to four times daily, for a total of about 50
milligrams of pure heroin a day. Longtime addicts require higher, more
frequent doses to avoid withdrawal.

Cost

Local police say the typical street buy of a quarter-gram costs about $75.