Heroin is an incredibly addictive and dangerous drug. It comes in many varieties that people around the world use. One of the most worrying types of heroin is black tar heroin. Take a closer look at black tar heroin, why it’s so dangerous, its effects and how you can break free from a heroin addiction. Call us today at 866.262.0531 to learn more about heroin addiction rehab.
What is Black Tar Heroin?
The most common form of heroin comes in powder form, which is usually either white or brown. However, it’s not the only kind of heroin that is available. Just as the name suggests, black tar is a dark and sticky substance. In fact, it often looks like black roofing tar.
Black tar, like all forms of heroin, comes from morphine. That makes it a powerful opioid drug. Individuals can smoke this type of heroin, but many inject it. This makes it extra dangerous to users.
Black tar is less refined than other forms of heroin. As a result, it’s also cheaper. Most people who use black tar already have a strong addiction to opiates.
The Side Effects of Black Tar
Using black tar heroin can have immediate negative effects. Users consume this drug because they want to experience the relaxation, euphoria or high that comes with the drug. However, the high isn’t the only symptom of black tar heroin.
Right away, heroin users can start to feel confused and disoriented. In a matter of minutes, other side effects can appear. These effects include nausea, diarrhea, itching and dry mouth.
Long-term use of black tar can cause further complications. This is especially true for those who inject it. Infections and abscesses are common, and in some cases, the flesh can start to decay around the injection site.
How Heroin Addiction Develops
Using black tar heroin can rapidly result in a drug addiction. When users consume heroin, they flood their brains with chemicals that induce relaxation and happiness. However, those feelings don’t last.
Eventually, users will crave another dose of heroin for the same effects. Despite the many negative consequences, finding and using heroin will be their primary objective.
While black tar heroin is highly addictive, there are also underlying factors that can lead to the development of an addiction. Certain people may be more prone to addiction because of mental health issues, environment or even genetics.
Consequences of Heroin Addiction
Heroin addiction is a serious and progressive condition. Over time, an individual’s tolerance for the drug can increase and they may find themselves needing more to achieve the desired effects. This can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit. Heroin abuse can also cause long-term health consequences such as heart, lung, and liver diseases.
Additionally, heroin abuse causes changes in the brain that can lead to psychological addiction. This form of addiction occurs when a person begins to rely on the drug to cope with everyday life and is no longer able to find pleasure without it. People may also experience cravings for the drug even after abstaining from use for long periods of time, making it difficult to stay clean.
Heroin addiction can also cause a wide range of social and economic problems, such as homelessness, job loss, strained relationships with friends and family members, legal troubles, financial hardship, and an increased risk of HIV/AIDS. These consequences are far-reaching and can have lasting negative impacts on the person’s life.
Treatment for Heroin Addiction at Crestview Recovery
To completely end an addiction to black tar heroin, professional support is key. At Crestview Recovery, clients get the treatment they need to end heroin abuse once and for all. Treatment programs are comprehensive and include all of the following:
To end a black tar heroin addiction, a 90-day addiction treatment center in Oregon could be ideal. Crestview Recovery in Portland might be the ideal solution for those who are ready to embrace sobriety. Find your custom route to recovery by calling 866.262.0531 today.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
