Heroin

Heroin ((INN) Diacetylmorphine, (BAN) diamorphine) is an opioid synthesized directly from the extracts of the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum. It is the 3,6-diacetyl derivative of morphine (hence diacetylmorphine) and is synthesized by acetylation. The white crystalline form is commonly the hydrochloride salt diacetylmorphine hydrochloride. Upon crossing the blood-brain barrier, which occurs soon after introduction of the drug into the bloodstream, heroin mimics the action of endorphins, creating a sense of well-being. One of the most common methods of heroin use is via intravenous injection, though it's known to be injected in the oral or even visual cavities, or smoked.