The Destructive Effects of Heroin

Immediate Harm: Heroin produces an intense sensation called a rush, often accompanied by warm skin and a dry mouth. Initial side effects may include vomiting or severe itching.¹

After the high, users become drowsy for hours as their breathing and heart rate slow down.¹

Within hours after the drug effects have decreased, the user’s body will begin to crave more. If he does not get another fix, he will begin to experience withdrawal. Withdrawal includes the extreme physical and mental symptoms that are experienced if the body is not supplied again with the next dose of heroin. These symptoms include restlessness, aches and pains in the bones, diarrhea, vomiting and severe discomfort.²

The initial high lasts only a few minutes but, over time, users need larger doses just to feel “normal.”³²

Short-Term Effects

• Rush
• Slowed breathing
• Clouded mental functioning
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sedation (drowsiness)
• Hypothermia (body temperature lower than normal)
• Coma or death

Updated: 2025