Highly potent opioids like heroin, fentanyl, and morphine have long been go-to drugs for people struggling with addiction. These illegal and dangerous opioids are known for inducing euphoria and are infamous for their serious addictive nature. Every year, numerous cases of mental health disorders, substance abuse, and overdose are reported in connection with heroin use.
People use heroin for the high and euphoric rush it induces. Usually, consumers experience a sense of drowsiness, relaxation, and lightheadedness within moments of taking a dose. Whether injected, snorted, or smoked, heroin can cause a sudden high, but at the same time, leave addiction and dependence in its wake.
What Are the Different Stages of a Heroin High?
Within moments of consuming heroin, users start experiencing its effects and its influence on their behavior.
Initial rush. The first phase of the high, right after a dose, offers an overwhelming amount of pleasure and lightheadedness.
Peak high phase. As heroin mixes into the bloodstream and disperses through the body, the peak high effects become more prominent. The user begins to feel drowsy and relaxed, has difficulty concentrating, and may fall asleep as heart rate and breathing begin to drop. This can last for a few hours.
Wearing off. As the drug begins to wear off, the body slowly regains consciousness and returns to its senses. Heart rate and breathing return to normal, but a sense of confusion or grogginess may persist for about 3 to 5 hours, depending on dosage and tolerance.
What Are the Health Risks of Using Heroin?
Heroin is considered a dangerous drug. While some opioids are used in supervised conditions for medical treatment, prolonged use and heroin addiction can have severe consequences:
- Heroin and similar drugs like fentanyl can cause infectious disease and long-term damage to critical organs.
- With prolonged use, your body can develop tolerance, leading to repeat use and the development of addiction, which can push people toward higher dosages and eventually an overdose.
- The risk of overdose, especially when the drug is mixed with other substances, can be fatal.
Is There Any Help for Heroin Addiction?
Exposure to drugs like heroin and fentanyl can have serious effects on physical and mental health. However, there are resources and treatments that can help with recovery.
Structured addiction recovery programs, like an Evening Treatment Program (night treatment), a Partial Hospitalization Program (Day Treatment Program), and a traditional outpatient program, are designed to provide a holistic recovery plan. Enrolled clients can draw on the support of trained professionals and a series of therapies and procedures to navigate the testing phases of opioid addiction recovery.
Greater Boston Addiction Centers (GBAC) has a team of experienced addiction recovery specialists and medical advisors who can help with your drug-free journey. Through specialized treatments including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups, skill workshops, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), clients get the assistance they need to work on their recovery. Medication-assisted treatment is also part of how we approach opioid use disorder specifically.
There are also targeted relapse prevention therapy and support resources for people as they transition into the post-recovery phase and prepare for their routine life. If you have questions or need assistance regarding a day treatment program or addiction treatment, reach out to our team directly.
Getting Help
Greater Boston Addiction Centers offers medication-assisted treatment alongside therapy, structured levels of care from day treatment through outpatient, and aftercare planning. Call (877) 920-6583, or verify your insurance online.
Frequently asked questions
How long do the overall effects of heroin last?
The overall effects of heroin can last anywhere from 3 to 5 hours. The intensity of the high diminishes over that time as the drug wears off.
Does the duration of the heroin high change over time?
Yes. As tolerance to heroin increases, both the duration and intensity of the high decrease, which is part of what pushes people toward higher or more frequent doses.
Is heroin highly addictive?
Yes. Heroin is extremely addictive and can lead to rapid physical and psychological dependence.
What are the risks of heroin overdose?
Heroin overdose can be fatal due to respiratory depression. It's a significant risk, especially when heroin is mixed with fentanyl or other substances.
What are the signs of a heroin overdose?
Signs include difficulty breathing, a slow pulse, clammy skin, and loss of consciousness. Call 911 immediately and use naloxone if it's available.
What types of addiction treatment does GBAC offer?
GBAC provides a range of treatment options, including outpatient programs, intensive outpatient, and day treatment, along with medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder.
What kind of therapies are used at GBAC?
GBAC incorporates therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
Does GBAC treat co-occurring mental health disorders?
Yes. Co-occurring mental health conditions are addressed as part of a comprehensive treatment approach, not treated separately from addiction.
Does insurance cover treatment at GBAC?
GBAC accepts most insurance plans, though it's best to verify your specific coverage. We offer free insurance verification with no commitment to treatment.
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Clinically reviewed by Nikolas R. Protasenia, LMHC, LPC Last reviewed October 21, 2026. This article is for general information and isn't a substitute for advice from your own clinician.