Heroin addiction is one of the most serious and prevalent drug problems in the United States. This highly addictive illicit drug is derived from the opium poppy and falls under the opioid category, which also includes prescription painkillers like OxyContin. Unfortunately, the transition from prescription opioid abuse to heroin addiction has become increasingly common. Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) shows that approximately 80% of individuals who are addicted to heroin first misused prescription opioids. As prescription painkillers become harder to obtain, many users turn to heroin as a cheaper and more accessible alternative.
Heroin’s potency and ease of availability make it particularly dangerous. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heroin overdoses were responsible for nearly 15,000 deaths in the year 2020 alone, highlighting the severity of the epidemic. With its high risk of overdose, it is crucial to seek treatment for heroin addiction as early as possible. At Pyramid Healthcare, we offer the support and resources necessary to help individuals break free from heroin’s grip and begin a path to lasting recovery.
How Heroin Affects the Mind and Body
Heroin’s effects on the body and mind are both immediate and long-lasting. When users inject or inhale the drug, they experience a rush of euphoria followed by feelings of intense relaxation. However, these pleasurable effects are short-lived, often lasting only 10 to 20 minutes. As the drug’s effects fade, cravings for more heroin begin almost immediately. Over time, the body becomes physically and psychologically dependent on the drug, which leads to tolerance and increased usage.
Long-term heroin use can have serious and often irreversible consequences. The effects of chronic heroin use include:
Physical Symptoms
Long-Term Health Effects
The risk of overdose is especially high, as heroin can quickly depress the respiratory system to life-threatening levels. In many cases, addiction leads to significant financial and personal hardships, including job loss, broken relationships and legal troubles.
Safe Detox and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
At Pyramid Healthcare, we understand that detoxing from heroin can be extremely challenging. Withdrawal symptoms can begin within six to 12 hours after the last dose, often leading to anxiety, nausea, muscle pain and severe reactions such as seizures. Because of the severity of withdrawal, it’s essential to undergo detoxification in a medically supervised environment.
Our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program is designed to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. MAT uses FDA-approved medications like methadone, Suboxone and Vivitrol to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also helping patients develop healthier coping strategies. Our clinicians work closely with each individual to create a personalized treatment plan that meets their unique needs.
We provide a combination of therapies, including:
Reclaim Your Life with Pyramid Healthcare
Heroin addiction can feel overwhelming, but recovery is possible. At Pyramid Healthcare, we are committed to providing compassionate care to help you regain control of your life. Our comprehensive programs offer flexible treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
Our dedicated team of experienced clinicians and addiction specialists at Pyramid Healthcare is here to support you every step of the way. We believe in treating the whole person—mind, body and spirit—and our programs are designed to empower individuals to break free from heroin addiction and achieve lasting sobriety.
