Local Rehab Gives Exclusive Look at Heroin vs Meth

Duffield, VA – ReVIDA® Recovery is a local rehab that recently published an article looking at the similarities and differences between heroin and meth. Their program features medication-assisted treatment utilizing Suboxone and outpatient therapy options.

“Heroin is a semi-synthetic opioid that is derived from the poppy plant. The milk inside poppy seed pods is harvested and dried to make opium. From there, opium goes through multiple chemical processes to make heroin. Heroin can have traces of the poppy plant left, but the more synthesizing it goes through, the more potent it will be.

Heroin is a depressant that slows the central nervous system. Because of this, side effects like drowsiness or dizziness can result in nodding in and out of consciousness. Heroin can also cause constipation, itchiness, and dry mouth. When taken in excess, heroin can cause an overdose, as the central nervous system slows beyond functionality. This causes breathing to stop and can be life-threatening,” the article reads.

Methamphetamines, or meth for short, are a type of man-made stimulant often derived from pseudoephedrine, which is an ingredient in over-the-counter cold medications. Meth is typically imported from Mexico in a powder or liquid form. From there, it enters illicit laboratories in the U.S. to be chemically processed into crystal meth. The process involves dangerous chemicals that can include fertilizer, acetone, and lithium. The sites of these labs are often left contaminated for years, even after meth production has stopped.

Meth is classified as a stimulant, which is the opposite of depressants such as heroin. The central nervous system is sped up when meth is taken, increasing heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure. The initial rush of taking meth induces a rush of pleasure followed by a surge of energy. Side effects of this include increased productivity, paranoia, and decreased appetite.

Combining heroin and meth has detrimental effects because they can feel like they cancel each other out. As meth brings the person up, heroin brings them down. This leaves the person not feeling too fast or slow. However, this also induces them to take more substances, whether that is heroin, meth, or both. Increasing the amount taken increases the risk of an overdose. Side effects of taking heroin and meth together include confusion, paranoia, speaking incoherently, lack of coordination, losing consciousness, and anxiety.

“There are always risks and dangers when taking illicit substances. Heroin and meth are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and therefore have no dosing regulations or laws stating what can and cannot be in the substance. This increases the risk of the heroin and meth to have impurities and other substances added. Fentanyl is one of the most utilized cutting agents in substances today. When mixed into heroin, the effects increase tenfold. When mixed into meth, the person is taking a speedball without knowing. These scenarios can result in an overdose that can be life-threatening.

“One of the most common ways to take heroin is via injection. The effects can be felt immediately by using this method because heroin enters the bloodstream directly. Heroin and meth mixed together can also be injected for the same reasons. However, intravenous substance use comes with many dangers. When a needle pierces the skin, a wound forms. Wounds can get infected, leading to abscesses and damage to the surrounding tissue. There is also the risk of contracting HIV/AIDS or hepatitis C from sharing needles,” the article continues.

No over-the-counter medications to counteract a meth overdose. However, Narcan® (naloxone) can be administered to reverse the effects of a heroin overdose. It does not matter if a heroin overdose or meth overdose is more prevalent, medical attention is necessary for all overdose situations. Adverse effects can still happen after Narcan® (naloxone) is administered or after the effects of meth seem less intense.

ReVIDA® Recovery has been bringing education on topics surrounding opioids for years. They have helped many find their success in recovery from opioid use disorder. The dedicated team at ReVIDA® Recovery is always available for support throughout the treatment process. They also accept many insurance plans and offer same-day appointments.

To learn more about ReVIDA® Recovery, call 423-631-0432 or visit their website.