What Is In Black Tar Heroin?

Generally, black tar heroin contains variable mixtures of morphine derivatives, with a predominance of 6-MAM.

The remaining chemical contents of black tar heroin can vary and may include several bulking or cutting agents as well as dangerous chemicals used during production.

Read more about black tar heroin addiction

How Much Pure Heroin Is In Black Tar Heroin?

Black tar heroin contains less pure heroin compared to powdered forms of the drug. Black tar heroin may only range between 25-30% purity.

Bulking And Cutting Agents Found In Black Tar Heroin

Black tar heroin may be frozen, cut with additional substances, or ground into powder before selling black tar on the street.

Cutting or bulking agents used to increase black tar heroin may include substances such as:

• aspirin
• laxatives
• bath salts
• sugar
• cocoa powder
• coffee
• shoe polish

Dangerous Substances Found In Black Tar Heroin

Black tar heroin may contain other prescription painkillers, such as fentanyl or oxycodone.

Depending on the manufacturing, this drug may contain other toxic substances, such as:

• ammonia
• hydrochloric acid
• acetic anhydride
• calcium oxide
• infection-causing bacteria

Black tar heroin often contains toxic additives that may cause necrotizing skin infections, subcutaneous infections, and damage to the kidneys, liver, brain, and lungs.

Getting Help For Black Tar Heroin Addiction

All opiates, including prescription opioids and black tar heroin, quickly lead to chemical addiction, adverse side effects, and overdose.

Individuals struggling with heroin addiction often require substance abuse treatment to achieve long-term sobriety.

If you or a loved one has a black tar heroin addiction, or if you have questions about rehab programs, contact an addiction specialist today to find a heroin rehab program.

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff