Opioids are a class of drugs used for pain relief and anesthesia. But more often than not, opioids are misused, leading to addiction or overdose. With the opioid crisis, more and more people are slowly becoming aware of the dangers of substance use, and a common question asked is, “is heroin an opioid?” Indeed, heroin is an opioid with fatal side effects. If you or a loved one is struggling with a heroin addiction, reach out to Lighthouse Recovery’s heroin rehab in Boynton Beach, FL, for immediate treatment.
Unlike other opioids that have been approved for medical use, heroin isn’t a prescription drug. Obtained from the opium poppy plant, it is illegally sold and distributed. To know more about the dangers of heroin addiction and effective 90-day treatment programs in Florida, call us at 866.308.2090
Is Heroin an Opioid?
Historically and in the medical field, opioids have been used to manage the symptoms of chronic pain or provide pain relief after a surgery or traumatic accident. However, as a habit-forming substance, opioids can quickly lead to chemical dependence and addiction. Over the years, awareness about the opioid epidemic has increased, and safer painkillers have been invented that produce similar effects but without deadly side effects.
People often ask, “Is heroin an opioid too?”
The answer is yes. Heroin is an opioid, but one that is illegally produced and sold. Like all other opioids, heroin works as a depressant. It acts on the central nervous system and produces feelings of intense happiness and relaxation. With continued use, the body may build up a tolerance to it. As a result, the person may need more and more of the substance to get high, trapping them in a vicious cycle.
Side-Effects of Heroin Addiction
As a street drug, the side effects of heroin addiction can be more fatal, as the heroin may be impure or mixed with other substances leading to volatile reactions in the body. The typical short-term side effects of an opioid addiction such as heroin include:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and vomiting
- Reduced heart rate
- Lowered blood pressure
- Constipation
- Slow breathing
- Itchiness
- Brain fog
- Lethargy
In the long run, heroin addiction can cause immense damage to the physical organs. Moreover, under the effects of heroin, a person is at a higher risk for injury and accidents. Some of the long-term side-effects of heroin addiction include the following:
- Kidney and liver disease
- Chronic constipation
- Lung disease
- Heart valve infections
- Sexual dysfunction
- Skin abscesses
- Damaged nasal tissue
- Lowered immunity
- Insomnia and sleep disorders
- Cognitive decline
With just two weeks of regular use, it is possible to develop a heroin dependency that can later culminate in addiction. Since heroin withdrawal symptoms can be particularly painful, it is advisable to opt for medical detox.
If someone you know is showing signs of heroin addiction, they must seek treatment from a quality rehab at the earliest.
Get Help for Heroin Addiction at Lighthouse Recovery Institute
Heroin addiction is a serious concern that requires immediate professional intervention and treatment.
At Lighthouse Recovery, we ensure that every client receives intensive care, medical attention, and therapeutic support to make a full and lifelong recovery. From partial hospitalization to outpatient care and aftercare to trauma therapy, we offer a variety of programs and services to help clients recover from substance use disorders and build happier futures. Our 90-day treatment programs with a strong focus on aftercare have helped countless patients heal and go on to live successful lives.
Choosing to seek professional help is the bravest step you can take. Call us at 866.308.2090 to begin your recovery journey today.
