|
From the Director
Heroin is a highly addictive drug,
and its abuse has repercussions that
extend far beyond the individual
user. The medical and social consequences
of drug abuse - HIV/AIDS,
tuberculosis, fetal effects, crime,
violence, and disruptions in family,
workplace, and educational environments -
have a devastating impact
on society and cost billions of dollars
each year.
Although heroin abuse has trended
downward during the past several
years, its prevalence is still higher
than in the early 1990s. These relatively
high rates of abuse, especially
among school-age youth, and the
glamorization of heroin in music
and films make it imperative that
the public has the latest scientific
information on this topic. Heroin
also is increasing in purity and
decreasing in price, which makes it
an attractive option for young people.
Like many other chronic diseases,
addiction can be treated. Fortunately,
the availability of treatments to manage
opiate addiction and the promise
from research of new and effective
behavioral and pharmacological
therapies provides hope for individuals
who suffer from addiction and for
those around them. For example,
buprenorphine, approved by the
Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) in 2002, provides a less
addictive alternative to methadone
maintenance, reduces cravings with
only mild withdrawal symptoms,
and can be prescribed in the privacy
of a doctor's office.
The National Institute on Drug
Abuse (NIDA) has developed this
publication to provide an overview
of the state of heroin abuse and
addiction. We hope this compilation
of scientific information on heroin
will help to inform readers about
the harmful effects of heroin abuse
and addiction as well as assist in
prevention and treatment efforts.
Nora D.Volkow, M.D.
Director
National Institute on Drug Abuse
This report is also available in PDF format, Heroin Abuse and Addiction, [PDF format, 432 KB]
All materials appearing in the Research Reports Series are in the public domain and may be reproduced without permission from NIDA. Citation of the source is appreciated.
To obtain printed copies of this report, please call or write the National Clearinghouse on Alcohol and Drug Information, P.O. Box 2345, Rockville, MD 20852, 1-800-729-6686. NIDA Research Report - Heroin Abuse and Addiction: NIH Publication No. 05-4165, Printed October 1997, Reprinted September, 2000, Revised May 2005. 2202119times since 10/15/97.
|
