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The Creation of the Drug
Heroin was synthesized from morphine in 1874 by an English chemist. It is a natural product of the opium poppy. Internationally, heroin is controlled under Schedules I and IV of the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. It is generally illegal to make, possess, or sell heroin without a specific license. Often times heroin which is illegally sold is mixed with other substances such as strychnine. (This image is in the public domain in the United States.) -
Heroin Being Sold by Pharmacies
Heroin was produced commercially in 1898 by the Bayer Pharmaceutical Company.From 1898 through to 1910, diamorphine was marketed under the trademark name "Heroin" as a non-addictive morphine substitute and cough suppressant. In 1924, the United States Congress banned its sale under the Bayer Company. This act also banned the importation or manufacture of the product. It is now a Schedule I substance, which makes it illegal in the U.S.(This image is in the public domain in the United States.) -
The First Heroin Epidemic
During the first epidemic, the highest incidence of use occurred in the late 1940s and early 1950s. But there have been at least two major heroin epidemics in the United States and currently if things keep getting worse we will face our third epidemic. Back in the day, the epidemics subsided due to lack of purity in the heroin that was available and the increasing cost of heroin but to date it is on the rise again. (Photo by Infrogmation) -
Heroin Taking Lives: Then and Now
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the rate of heroin-related overdose deaths nearly quadrupled between 2002 and 2013. In fact, heroin claimed the lives of more than 8,200 Americans in 2013. Heroin goes by many street names including black tar, chiva, china white, junk, Mexican brown, skag, and smack, which are all "cut" with harmful substances. Don't be fooled by the unique names. (Photo taken from "ResoluteSupportMedia" on flickr) -
Get The Help You or Your Loved Ones Need
With the heroin addiction at an all time high, it is easier than ever to get the help you need. Whether it be a clinic or even over the phone guidance. If you or anyone you know if suffering call 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Most clinics accept major insurances but will still provide help to anyone who need's it. (This image is in the public domain in the United States.)
