IS HEROIN A STIMULANT?

Why this resource is helpful:

"Heroin is an illegal recreational drug that is in the opioid class. It is a highly addictive substance made from opium poppy sap. Describing it does not answer the question, "is heroin a stimulant?" What this does do is shed light on how the initial effects of wellbeing can turn into cravings and dependency. At Crestview Recovery, we offer a heroin addiction treatment program and more to help you in recovery.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A STIMULANT AND A DEPRESSANT
Also helpful with understanding is knowing the difference between a stimulant and a depressant. Most addictive drugs fall under these two general classes. The names of both indicate how a person responds to the effects of each class.

A stimulant arouses the central nervous system. This category of drugs amplifies processes in the brain and body. For example, most stimulant drugs affect the central nervous system, heightening the release of dopamine to increase a person"s alertness, attention, and energy.

Depressants have the opposite effect. These drugs slow down the central nervous system and all body parts that it controls. They can slow a person"s heart rate, breathing, and brain activity.

IS HEROIN A STIMULANT?
The short answer to "is heroin a stimulant" is no. Heroin is a depressant that slows down functions of the body controlled by the central nervous system. Heroin affects brain function and breathing to the point of slowing down or stopping both.

Body temperature and blood pressure can drop. A person"s heartbeat can become irregular. It is not uncommon for them to lose consciousness or even lapse into a coma. The person will need help from a substance abuse treatment program to reverse its effects.

Heroin is an opioid (also known as a narcotic) drug processed from morphine and extracted from the poppy plant. Heroin is often "cut" with other drugs like fentanyl or household substances like sugar or powdered milk. As a result, users are unaware of how much actual heroin is being used, increasing the likelihood of overdose. The degree to which heroin affects a person depends on different factors such as:

Strength of dose
Other drugs taken at the same time
The person"s size and weight
Their general state of mind
Presence of health conditions
IMMEDIATE EFFECTS OF TAKING HEROIN
A person experiences a rush of pleasurable feelings when taking heroin. However, seeking relief from physical pain turns into some not-so-pleasant physical symptoms. They may feel sick and start vomiting. Loss of sex drive and narrowing of pupils may also occur.

Some changes become irreversible over long-term use. Coupled with these changes are the risks of building tolerance and dependence."

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