Heroin is a semi-synthetic opioid that induces strong analgesic and euphoric effects by binding to μ-opioid receptors. It has a high potential for dependence and can lead to severe health damage and overdoses when misused. The substance is metabolized to morphine in the body, which enhances its effects. Due to its potent effects and risks, responsible use is essential.
Class
Opioide
Pharmacological context
Mechanism
Heroin (Diacetylmorphin) ist ein Prodrug, das schnell durch...
Short read on known pharmacology
Interactions
No curated pairs visible
Curated visible combinations
Risk theme
Interpret risks carefully
Condensed from structured notes
Receptor Targets
Mechanism of Action
Designations
IUPAC: Heroin
Synapedia Evidence
Effects & Pharmacology is partially translated. Some details are still being expanded.
Heroin (Diacetylmorphin) ist ein Prodrug, das schnell durch Plasma-Esterasen zu 6-Monoacetylmorphin (6-MAM) und Morphin metabolisiert wird. 6-MAM ist ein potenterer μ-Opioid-Rezeptor-Agonist als Morphin mit schnellerer ZNS-Penetration (höhere Lipophilie). Diese schnelle Umwandlung erklärt die rasante Euphorie. Die μ-Opioid-Aktivierung (Gi-Protein-gekoppelt) hemmt die Adenylylcyclase (↓cAMP), aktiviert einwärtsgleichrichtende K+-Kanäle (Hyperpolarisation) und inhibiert spannungsgesteuerte Ca²+-Kanäle. Dies führt zu Analgesie, Sedation und intensiver Euphorie. Partieller Agonismus an κ- und δ-Opioid-Rezeptoren trägt zu subtilen Effekten bei.
Known Effects
Individual effects may vary significantly. These are pharmacologically documented effects.
Reported range 20–40 mg
Total duration 3–5 hours
Nasal
| Tier | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Light | 10–20 mg |
| Reported | 20–40 mg |
| Strong | 40–80 mg |
Geraucht
| Tier | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Light | 10–20 mg |
| Reported | 20–40 mg |
| Strong | 40–80 mg |
IV
| Tier | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Light | 5–10 mg |
| Reported | 10–20 mg |
| Strong | 20–50 mg |
Onset
5–10 minutes
Peak
30–60 minutes
Total duration
3–5 hours
After effects
1–2 hours
Avoid uncertain dosage claims and do not infer numbers when data is unclear.
Dose sensitivity varies greatly between individuals. Body weight, tolerance, route of administration, combinations, and pre-existing conditions significantly affect outcomes. These figures are not dosing recommendations — they describe reported ranges, not safe amounts.
Risks
Evidence
strong
Neurotoxicity
possible
Safer Use
Depressant-risk context
This substance belongs to a context where combinations with opioids, benzodiazepines, alcohol, GHB/GBL, or other sedating substances can increase sedation, blackout, aspiration, and breathing-risk patterns. Risk Check can review warning patterns; it is not medical advice and it cannot clear a combination as safe.
The risks listed may be incomplete. Especially for research chemicals and rare substances, available data is limited.
Interaction details from the knowledge layer are still being translated.
Interaction data is based on known mechanisms. Unknown or rare interactions are possible and may be life-threatening.
Based on substance class, receptors, mechanisms, and effect profile.
This information is for scientific and harm-reduction purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice.
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