Heroin

Class:
A

Other Names:
Horse, smack, stuff, scag and brown.

Effects:
For some, heroin can produce feelings of warmth and well being, but common symptoms are drowsiness, muscle cramps, sweating and the pupils of the eye decrease in size. Many users can become addicted to the drug, using it a lot just to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

What to look forto identify usage:
White powder, and is available in both tablet and powder form. Look out for wraps of paper, syringes and needles, blackened tinfoil and tourniquets (belts, ties or string could be clues). Also look out for bent spoons, used matches and bottle caps. Needle marks on hands, arms, legs or feet could also be telltale signs.

Other info:
It is injected, smoked or sniffed. Besides the dangers of toxic overdose or addiction, sharing needles can cause blood infection, abscesses, malnutrition, hepatitis and HIV.

FACT:
Heroin is becoming an increasing problem and there are heavy penalties for possession.

Law:

• The maximum sentence for possessing heroin is 7 years imprisonment and an unlimited fine.
• The maximum sentence for supplying heroin (including giving some to a friend) is life imprisonment and an unlimited fine.
• Heroin can be detected in urine for about 1-3 days.