NCJ Number
125861
Editor(s)
S H Snyder
Date Published
1986
Length
139 pages
Annotation
Heroin is discussed in terms of its nature and behavioral effects and the probable consequences of its use based on clinical and laboratory studies and observations.
Abstract
An overview provides a history of opiates from the first use of opium more than 4,000 years ago and notes that they are still used in medicine today. Heroin was first synthesized in 1898 and was thought to be a safe means of reducing or curing morphine addiction. Control of heroin distribution began many years later, following recognition of the problems related to heroin addiction. Researchers in psychology, sociology, physiology, and medicine have examined heroin's impact on human well-being. Researchers do not agree on a single theory of addiction, and no standard definition exists for recovery from addiction. Treatment approaches include detoxification, methadone maintenance, the use of opiate antagonists, psychotherapy and counseling, therapeutic communities, short-term residential treatment, and self-help fellowships such as Narcotics Anonymous. Photographs, glossary, index, 5 references, and appended list of State agencies for the prevention and treatment of drug abuse.