Pubdate: Wed, 12 Mar 2003 Source: Kentucky Post (KY) Copyright: 2003 Kentucky Post Contact: http://www.kypost.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/661 ABOUT HEROIN Origin An opiate, like morphine and OxyContin, heroin was created by scientists seeking a non-addictive substitute for morphine. It was prohibited by federal law after scientists learned it was many times more addictive than morphine. How it's used At one time, heroin was almost always injected into a vein, known as "mainlining," or just under the skin, known as "skin popping." But the more potent heroin sold on the street today is increasingly sniffed, snorted or smoked, what users call "chasing the dragon." It can also be taken orally. Nicknames Junk, H, Harry, powder, smack, scag, horse, white stuff and sugar. What it does Users say heroin produces an intense euphoria, or "rush," followed by a state of extreme calm that can last up to four hours. Most users continue on through their everyday tasks, including work or school, but become all but non-productive. Physiological changes in the body quickly produce dependence. Without the drug addicts may feel extremely restless and anxious, experience bone and muscle pain, vomiting and cold flashes. A typical dose Addicts generally use it two to four times daily, for a total of about 50 milligrams of pure heroin a day. Longtime addicts require higher, more frequent doses to avoid withdrawal. Cost Local police say the typical street buy of a quarter-gram costs about $75. - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens