What Does Heroin Smell Like?

What Does Heroin Smell Like?

The smell of heroin is unmistakable. Often, this highly addictive substance smells much like vinegar because of the chemical process used to manufacture the drug. The chemical makeup of heroin can vary depending on where it's produced, but it's generally made from morphine — an opiate extracted from the seedpod of the Asian poppy plant (Papaver somniferum). The smell of heroin can be detected on a dirty spoon, dried-up dollar bill, cigarette butts, lingering on worn clothes, or in a person’s car. It’s hard to miss that potent odor heroin usually leaves behind.

Once you are familiar with the smell of heroin, you will easily be able to detect whether someone you know is under the influence or has been around someone else who has been actively using heroin.

What is Heroin?

Heroin is one of the world's most addictive substances. It's a potent opiate narcotic that damages the lungs, liver, kidneys, and brain and increases the risk of infection, heart attacks, and death. The rising number of overdoses and fatalities is alarming. Many families worldwide have a loved one suffering from this terrible addiction and need a reliable rehab center to send them to with confidentiality.

If you or someone you know is suffering from heroin addiction, it’s best to approach the situation with compassion and in a calm manner. Try not to shame them or pass judgment, but rather express your concern and support for them to get the help.

“In 2019, heroin-involved overdose death rates decreased over 6% from 2018 to 2019. However, more than 14,000 people died from a drug overdose involving heroin in the United States, a rate of more than four deaths for every 100,000 Americans. The number of heroin-involved overdose deaths was more than seven times higher in 2019 than in 1999. Nearly a third of all opioid deaths involved heroin.” - CDC

Physical Signs of Heroin Use

• Sudden weight loss
• Tiny pupils
• Needle marks on legs, arms, or hands
• Dark circles under the eyes
• Flu-like symptoms (nausea, fever, and vomiting)
• Runny nose
• Slurred speech
• Poor hygiene
• Constipation
• Skin appears flushed
• Under-eye puffiness
• Cuts, bruises, or scabs on the skin
• Loss of appetite
• Infections
• Burn marks on mouth or fingers from smoking

Evidence of Heroin Use

• Syringes
• Tiny plastic baggies
• Burnt silver spoons
• White or tan powdery residue
• Aluminum foil with burn marks
• Valuable possessions or money has gone missing
• Little orange caps (from syringes)
• Rolled up dollar bills
• Pieces of cigarette filters lying around
• Empty plastic pens (with no ink) for smoking
• Rubber ties
• Small glass pipes
• Dark brown or black sticky residue

Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms Include:

• Anxiety
• Diarrhea
• Bone aches and pain
• Cold flashes
• Fever
• Involuntary kicking
• Suicidal thoughts
• Nausea and vomiting
• Craving for more heroin
• Muscle cramping
• Overall discomfort and restlessness

How to Get Help for Heroin Addiction

Heroin detox must be supervised by a medical professional. At Passages, we offer several different treatment options that best suit the needs of the individual who is currently suffering. Our job is to do our best to ensure the safety, confidentiality, and security of every person who enters one of our treatment centers. We understand that this is extremely difficult for everyone involved.

Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms Include:

• Free 1-on-1 consultation with an admissions coordinator
• Free Insurance Verification
• Confidentiality Guaranteed
• Select a customized program with our admissions team
• Pick a day you want to come to Passages and begin treatment
• Arrange travel with our admissions team
• Call (888) 920-8849 to get started

Non-12-Step Addiction Rehab at Passages

Passages Malibu is an alternative to traditional rehab. We provide a holistic, client-centered approach to addiction treatment. Find lasting healing through our model of care and experiential therapies. You will uncover the root causes of your addiction, and we will provide you with tools for lifelong sobriety and change. We can help you turn your life around and find hope again. Call (888) 920-8849 for more information.