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Heroin, also known as diamorphine, is a highly addictive opioid drug derived from morphine, which is extracted from the opium poppy. It is typically encountered as a white or brownish powder and can be administered through injection, smoking, or snorting. The drug's effects are rapid and intense, producing a euphoric sensation followed by a period of drowsiness.

Medically, heroin was once used as a pain reliever and cough suppressant, but its potential for abuse and addiction led to its prohibition in most countries. Its illicit use is associated with significant health risks, including overdose, transmission of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C through needle sharing, and long-term organ damage. Addiction to heroin can result in severe withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped, making cessation difficult without professional help.

The production of heroin involves the acetylation of morphine, a process that increases its potency and speed of delivery to the brain. Its illegal manufacturing and distribution are often linked to organized crime. Efforts to combat heroin abuse include prevention programs, addiction treatment, and law enforcement strategies. Treatment options for heroin addiction often involve pharmacological interventions, such as methadone or buprenorphine, combined with behavioral therapies.