What Is Heroin Made Of?

Heroin is an illegal opioid drug that is made from morphine, which is extracted from the opium poppy. Heroin is considered an inexpensive street drug.

Heroin can come as a white or brownish powder or as a sticky black “tar”.

View a list of frequently asked questions about heroin abuse

Heroin Is Often Made Of Impure Additives

Because heroin is not produced in quality-controlled labs and drug dealers try to maximize profit, heroin is often cut with additives.

Baking soda, starch, sugar, or baby powder may be added to street-level heroin.

Additives in heroin may cause damage to the circulatory system from these foreign substance “clots”.

Heroin Is Often Cut With Stronger Opioids

Many drug dealers add stronger opioids like fentanyl to increase the potency of their product. In 2019, fentanyl was responsible for approximately 82% of all opioid-related overdose deaths.

Finding Treatment For Heroin Use

If you or a loved one struggle with heroin abuse, we can help. Opioid abuse has serious consequences on a person’s health and well-being.

Call our recovery helpline for more information on the best treatment options for your needs.

Every person is different, but many have success with inpatient detox and behavioral therapy in both inpatient drug rehab and outpatient treatment settings.

Get started today – it’s the best decision you can make.

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff